Whether you realize it or not, growing up in Mississippi has had some lasting effects on you. From the way you speak to your food preferences, being reared in the Magnolia State has definitely played a role in molding you into the person you are today. Not so sure? Keep reading for 13 side effects everyone experiences from growing up in Mississippi.

1. You have a tendency to bless a lot of hearts.
Patrick Q/Flickr
The expression "bless your heart" seems to roll off your tongue rather easily. As for how you mean it – that’s always up for interpretation. (You have to admit, it’s the nicest sounding insult ever.)
2. You call pretty much everyone you meet "sweetie or darlin’."
Sole Treadmill/Flickr
Being friendly is in your blood, so it only makes sense that these sweet monikers aren’t used just for a significant other.
3. You prefer your tea sweeter than most.
Ginny/Flickr
When it comes to adding sugar to your tea, you’re undoubtedly generous in terms of the amount, which only makes senses – it’s sweet tea, it needs to be sweet.
4. To you, a deep fryer is a standard kitchen appliance.
Sheri/Flickr
Just as common as a microwave or toaster, a deep fryer is a must. How else would you make fried…well, anything?
5. You see a barn and think it’d be a great party venue or backdrop for a photo shoot.
Picture Mississippi - photography by Kim Hunt
You’ve known the full potential of barns long before "rustic chic" even became a thing.
6. You’ve completely given up on the concept of "four seasons."
Jen/Flickr
Four seasons in Mississippi? Yeah right. Unless, of course, you mean summer, hurricane season, hunting season, and football season.
7. Mayo is a big deal to you.
Thomas Edwards/Flickr
Simply put, all mayo is not created equal. Seriously, there have probably been feuds started over this one.
8. You always use the term "Coke" to refer to all soft drinks.
Rex Sorgatz/Flickr
Calling it "soda or pop?" Never! It will always be "Coke. All of it.
9. You’re pretty thrifty when it comes to Tupperware.
Matt/Flickr
Why waste money on pricey Tupperware when Cool Whip and Country Crock containers do the same thing?
10. "Ma’am and sir" will forever be part of your vocabulary.
McBeth/Flickr
No matter how old you are, you’ll always refer to elders as "ma’am and sir" because, well, why wouldn’t you?
11. To you, the thought of eating a Moon Pie without an RC Cola is absurd.
Sarah Richter/Flickr
As common as peanut butter and jelly, this is one pairing most Mississippians swear by. Do it around outsiders and you’ll probably get a few strange looks, but that’s just because they don’t know what they’re missing.
12. You’re completely convinced you don’t have an accent.
Archie Campbell/Flickr
Accent? What accent?
13. You can’t stand to stay indoors.
Picture Mississippi - Photography by Kim Hunt
Mississippi has so many amazing state parks and recreation areas, staying indoors is nearly impossible.

So, how many of these apply to you? Have some more “weird” side effects to add? Tell us in the comments section!

If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out “13 Awkward Moments Every Mississippian Has Endured At Least Once.”

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