Arizona is a state like no other—with its blazing sunsets, wide-open deserts, and unique desert lifestyle. If you’ve spent enough time soaking up the sun (and heat), you start to notice certain quirks that only true Arizonans understand. Here are 10 telltale signs you’ve lived in Arizona for far too long:
1. You Consider 100°F (38°C) “A Bit Cool for This Time of Year”
- Triple-digit temperatures are just another day in the desert for you.
2. You’ve Mastered the Art of Parking in the Shade—Any Shade
- You’ll circle the lot endlessly for even the smallest patch of shade.
3. You Know the Difference Between a Monsoon and a Haboob
- Monsoon season is exciting, and you know to roll up the windows before a dust storm hits.
4. You’ve Eaten at a Restaurant with a “Closed for the Summer” Sign
- Some places shut down in the summer, and you’re not even fazed.
5. You’ve Seen a Scorpion or Rattlesnake in Your House or Yard
- Desert critters are just part of daily life, and you know to shake out your shoes.
6. You’ve Used Your Oven as a Storage Space
- With no need to bake in the summer, your oven becomes extra storage.
7. You’ve Experienced the “Arizona Handshake”
- You know not to touch your car’s metal parts without protection.
8. You’ve Learned to Appreciate the Smell of Creosote After the Rain
- The earthy, refreshing scent is your favorite part of monsoon season.
9. You’ve Stopped Explaining Why Arizona Doesn’t Observe Daylight Saving Time
- You’re tired of telling people why your clocks don’t change.
10. You’ve Said, “But It’s a Dry Heat” at Least Once a Week
- You use this phrase to justify the weather, even when it’s scorching hot.
If most of these sound familiar, congratulations—you’re officially a seasoned Arizonan!
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arizona
- https://www.britannica.com/place/Arizona-state
- https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/geography/states/article/arizona
- https://www.virginiaautoservice.com/48-interesting-facts-about-arizona