southern belle in a northern world

Nola and I have discovered a few things for those southern belles to take note of when venturing to any Dakota.  

1.  Maxi dresses have become the attire of choice.  Battling differing temperatures with June having lows of 40 and highs of 100, you just never know how cold it'll be.  PLUS, the hurricane like winds can cause quite a show if you have on a shorter dress.  

2.  Use of a southern accent can go a long way.  Yes, when that police officer pulls you over, use your cute, southern drawl and you just may get out of a ticket.  In addition, people sometimes think you are being extra charming with your ma'ams and sirs.  I've been able to start a great many conversations just because I said Mr. or Mrs. or replied with a yes maam.  

3.  Watering the grass is a definite.  We still haven't figured this one out yet.  Louisiana humidity kept our green grass looking green.  Now our neighbors grass is definitely greener...they have a sprinkler system.  

4.  Hail.  Hail can be hell.  It was 50 degrees at the end of June and I was driving in a hail storm.  Tyler and I have seen so many cars in the Wal-Mart parking lot with battle scars from hail.  Luckily, I get the garage.  

5.  Speed limits in LA are much faster than those around Ellsworth AFB.  We drive 55 mph on highways in BR...it's 35mph here.  My southern charm didn't work out so well when I received my very first speeding ticket.  Watch out for those slow speed zones.  

6.  NO HUMIDITY!!!  My hair does look a tad better in this no humidity-styled climate; however, it does mean lotion becomes your best friend.  Put lotion in your car, by your front door, by your back door, and in your purse.  

7.  Get used to the mispronunciation of your last name.  Get used to mispronouncing others' names as well.  

8.  The scenery is to die for and driving up and down these mountains locals call The Black Hills can be exhilarating.  We still oooo and awwwww at the sites around us.  The beauty of these hills should make you want to come and visit...so come and visit!!!

9.  Enjoy the outdoors.  The weather has been beautiful and being outside is manageable compared to LA.  The winds make for a cool breeze.  Do something you wouldn't normally do in the south like watch bison from your car, play tennis in the middle of the day, or ride bikes on Mickelson Trail.