10 Things You've Grown to Undeniably Hate If You're From Kentucky
By Jenn Shockley|Published November 15, 2015
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Jenn Shockley
Author
I am somewhat a cliche'. I grew up running around barefoot on a farm in Kentucky.
I love writing, art, sunshine, all animals and my incredibly patient husband, who tolerates my "crazy animal lady" side.
Kentucky is a beautiful place to live, filled with wonderful people–but it is not perfect. Mind you, it is close though. Still, like anywhere, there are things residents grow to undeniably hate about our gorgeous state. The southern hospitality and flourishing forests are definitely fine points, but alas; there are a few troubling areas as well. Stereotypical satire has been taken to an extreme over the years…and then there is the natural stuff.
Here are 10 things we sometimes grow to hate as Kentuckians:
There is literally no part of the acronym KKK that stands for Kentucky. Sadly, some of the actions of a few define the opinion of all. Your average Kentuckians are not all locked inside borders filled with hate. In fact, many cities are a melting pot of racial diversity.
We do have teeth, and can speak fluent English, though with an accent. Contrary to some unfounded rumors claiming Kentuckians to be toothless and ignorant, most of us get dental care. Those who do have bad teeth, likely just have bad teeth.
One of our state mottos is, "Kentucky, where education pays". That is not because most of us drop out of school around 5th grade. That is complete misinformation. In fact, we have some fantastic colleges in our state, and not just for sports.
7. Pollution
Monekyshine
This does not apply to the entire state, but it definitely applies to the Ohio Valley. We have incredibly colorful sunsets, and for decades I thought it was just Mother Nature. Unfortunately, the lovely shades of purple and pink are related to the air pollution particles that saturate the area. The level of Mercury that taints our water to the point some places advice fishermen to limit the amount of fish consumed monthly.
When it comes to local sports, Kentuckians can get a little crazy. The University of Louisville and University of Kentucky sports wars are real. Much madness ensues, especially during the games they play against one another. It is not that Cardinal and Wildcat fans are bad, but instead, completely dedicated and proud of their team spirit. Just in a somewhat extreme way.
Yes, Kentucky is the Bourbon capital, BUT that doesn’t mean we all drink it. Actually, many Kentuckians do not even care for the taste of bourbon, preferring red wine or a Mimosa. Some do not drink at all, and stick with sweet tea.
Women do not run around barefoot and pregnant, unless their feet happen to be hot. Many Kentucky women love shoes and collect a variety of styles and types. Also, believe it or not, every women in our state does not have a child. Some of us have dogs and cats instead.
Those that come here to celebrate the Derby often have a great time. Those of us who actually live in the area are instantly tortured with extreme traffic issues, an abundance of drunks, con artists looking to gain a buck, extra pollution, and an overall inconvenience. Yes, stars are in town, but so are a lot of other people. Kentucky loves their tourism, but many Louisville citizens find it to be an annoyance. I am not saying nothing about the Derby is fun, but the fun comes at a price.
Our weather is like a manic depressive schizophrenic. You never know exactly what you are going to get any given day. One day we might have 75 degree weather and walk around in shorts. The very next morning it might drop to 30 with an outburst of freezing rain, snow and sleet. It might even jump back up to the 70s the day after. We do indeed have four seasons, but they sometimes blend together in a blur of chaotic temperatures and climatic turmoil.
We have some of the most horrific allergens in the entire United States, at least in the Louisville and surrounding areas. Out of 100 people that I know, ALL of them suffer from allergies of some type. Most common are pollen, tree, plants, grass and mold. I have heard rumor that not all of our state suffers from allergies, but I suffer from disbelief.
In my humble opinion, these are very realistic things to get annoyed about, especially after suffering from allergies and manic weather for decades. The Derby is just one week, so it can be tolerable. (It’s just more an inconvenience if you happen to need to travel in that direction for anything.) Overall, Kentucky is a beautiful place to call home, and I in no way mean this as demeaning to our lovely state and good hearted people. What, if anything, have you grown to hate about the Bluegrass State over the years?
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