Growing up in our nation’s smallest state teaches us oh so many things. From being prepared for all sorts of weather, to knowing how to dodge potholes effectively, here are 12 life lessons learned from growing up in Rhode Island.

  1. Rhode Islanders all learned that the beach is not only important, but an essential part of life.

Flickr/David, Bergin, Emmett and Elliott Follow

  1. Everyone that learned to drive in the smallest state knows how to dodge potholes like pros.

Flickr/Joshua Davis

  1. Rhode Islanders also know that if the seafood isn’t fresh, it’s just not worth it.

Flickr/Bryan Bruchman

  1. Humidity is something you just have to deal with in the summertime.

Flickr/Matt Deavenport

  1. The best lemonade is frozen lemonade.

Flickr/Sarah

  1. New England weather is unpredictable so always be prepared for the worst.

Flickr/Y’amal

  1. The people of Rhode Island know that if you have somewhere important to be, always leave 15 minutes early for traffic time. Rhode Island is one of the densest states, after all.

Flickr/Kenya Allmond

  1. From quahogs to littlenecks, there are many types of clams and knowing the difference is important.

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  1. From harsh winters to frequent political scandals, the people of Rhode Island know how to find humor in just about everything.

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  1. They also know a thing or two about good Italian food.

Flickr/The Pizza Review

  1. If the roads don’t look safe, they’re not safe. Avoid driving, or go slow if you have to when it looks like this.

Flickr/Jef Nickerson

  1. Always stop to appreciate the beauty of each season, and especially the foliage.

Flickr/Rick Payette

Can you think of anything else that you learned while growing up in Rhode Island?

Flickr/David, Bergin, Emmett and Elliott Follow

Flickr/Joshua Davis

Flickr/Bryan Bruchman

Flickr/Matt Deavenport

Flickr/Sarah

Flickr/Y’amal

Flickr/Kenya Allmond

Christopher PaquetteFlickr/

Flickr/B2hambly

Flickr/The Pizza Review

Flickr/Jef Nickerson

Flickr/Rick Payette

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