Posted in South Dakota January 23, 2017 by

13 Things Everyone Who’s Moved Away From South Dakota Has Thought At Least Once

If you’re a South Dakota native currently living in a different state, you probably have many fond memories of the place you grew up. From glorious wide open spaces and stunning sunsets to delicious regional foods, South Dakota will probably always have a piece of your heart. Here are 13 things everyone who’s moved away from Mount Rushmore State has thought at least once.

1. "Man, I could just really go for some chislic right about now.”
Natalie / Only In Your State
If you’re lucky, you MIGHT find chislic in another Midwestern state, but you and I both know that it just won’t be the same.
2. “ . . . .or some SDSU icecream, for that matter.”
SDSU Ice cream / Facebook
If you still live in South Dakota, I hope you’re taking advantage of this creamy, delicious goodness. It’s easily the best icecream around.
3. "What I would do to find some solitude and get away from these crowds….”
John B. Kalla / Facebook
The serene open spaces and the tranquility our state offers are truly something else.
4. “When did the cost of living get so outrageously high?”
Tobin / Flickr
With a cost of living that’s almost 11% lower than the national average, South Dakota is a great place for a family to put down roots.
5. “You mean I have to pay a state income tax??!”
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr
That's what happens when you leave!
6. “I miss all of the glorious state parks."
Daren Jesisp / Flickr
The abundant wildlife, spectacular trail systems, and natural beauty of our state parks and recreations areas are unparalleled.
7. . . . not to mention the Black Hills.”
Matthew Paulson / Flickr
I’ll never get used to the unique beauty of Western South Dakota’s rocky terrain.
8. “Everyone here thinks that their sunsets are out of this world, but they’ve clearly never seen a South Dakota evening sky.”
Murray Foubister / Flickr
I’ve said It once, and I’ll say it again: nothing can compare to our South Dakota sunsets.
9. “I miss the days when I could enjoy all 4 seasons.”
Roderick Eime / Flickr
Although winter can drag on, it’s safe to say that every season in South Dakota is lovely in its own way.
10. “It wasn’t an exaggeration; people in South Dakota really ARE friendly.”
John’s Photography / Flickr
Sure, it would be a bold (and inaccurate) statement to claim that EVERY single South Dakotan is kind and easy going, but it’s definitely true that most of us were raised to go out of our way for others.
11. “On that same note, I kind of miss strangers actually saying hello or at least acknowledging me with a smile.”
Holly Hayes / Flickr
Not to mention that finger wave we often give.
12. “I miss my favorite hometown restaurant more than you can imagine.”
Matt Hintsa / Flickr
There’s nothing like ordering your favorite special at the restaurant you dined at for years.
13. “It’s time to head back to South Dakota.”
orientalizing / Flickr
Life circumstances may currently prevent you, but there’s no doubt that you’ve thought at least thought about returning to your favorite state.

Have you ever moved away from South Dakota? What did you miss the most? Are you planning on moving back? As always, feel free to share your thoughts and stories in the comment section below!

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