We know what you’re thinking – and no, “Go home” is not on the list. Despite our running jokes, we do happily welcome newcomers to Montana… as long as we get a few things straight.

Here are a few things the lifelong Montanans wish newcomers to know:

1. We REALLY value our space here.
Diana Robinson / Flickr
You've probably noticed that Montana is one of the least populated states in the country. We'd love to keep it that way, but if that isn't possible, we'd at least like to maintain our space. Don't crowd our property lines or our lives, and we'll welcome you with open arms. From a distance.
2. Please respect our natural resources.
junaidrao / Flickr
We absolutely love our lakes, rivers, parks, mountains and trails. We hope you do, too, but please respect the land.
3. Please don't try to change Montana.
emdot / Flickr
We're not saying we don't want newcomers to help improve our communities. We love supporting your small businesses and your support. But Montana is called the Last Best Place for a reason - we love to preserve our traditions.
4. The bad news is that Montana won't be quite as beautiful as you've pictured it...
Spend A Day Touring, LLC/ Flickr
5. ... the good news is, that's because it will be even better than you've imagined.
Ryan McKee / Flickr
Even the best pictures don't do our state justice.

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6. If you can't handle winter weather (and we mean REAL winter weather), Montana probably isn't the place for you.
oddharmonic / Flickr
We don't mean to sound harsh, but (especially depending on what part of the state you call home), winter is a big deal here.
7. We hope you'll take the time to support our small local businesses and learn the history of them.
mksfca / Flickr
This is Yesterday's Calf-A in Dell, a converted schoolhouse that serves amazing pie. There are gems like this all over the state.
8. Speaking of history, we hope you'll love learning about Montana's past.
Arthur T. LaBar / Flickr
We've got some well-preserved ghost towns, like Bannack State Park, and our past is quite colorful and interesting.
9. Eastern Montana isn't as populated, but it's highly underrated. Take the time to explore it too.
Brett Whaley / Flickr
This is Makoshika State Park, which is full of beautiful badlands and dinosaur bones.
10. Before you're allowed a Montana driver's license, you must eat a plate of Rocky Mountain oysters.
Matt Johnson / Flickr
Every Montanan does this. Just trust us. Wink, wink.

Really, the most important thing for any new Montanan to realize for themselves is that Montana is the best state.

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