Fewer than 600,000 people are currently living in Wyoming, but these few people know there are some unique aspects about living in the equality state. I grew up in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and loved every minute of it. Until I was older, I never realized that some of what I experienced by living in Wyoming was unique. I don’t know how many people see buffalo every day or go to the rodeo every summer, but I did see buffalo and go to the rodeo and considered it normal. Living in Wyoming can be interesting, but I consider myself blessed to have been able to experience some of the unique attributes of Wyoming.
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Wide Open Spaces
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Wyoming is known for wide open spaces, and for the people who are living in Wyoming, these open spaces mean a lot of travel time. Going from one town to another can take as much as two hours. During those two hours most of what you see is sagebrush and desert, unless you live in the mountains like I did. In which case, you will have gorgeous views as you travel.
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Desert Fun
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I may have lived in the mountains, but my dad lived in southern Wyoming where there is a lot of desert. If you happen to live in southern Wyoming, you know that going out into the desert to ride a four wheeler or look for arrowheads is a popular form of entertainment. If you are like most of the population and don’t live in southern Wyoming, this may seem like an odd pastime, but it really is entertaining when there is no movie theater to go to.
The vast expanses of desert landscape provide the perfect playground for adventure-seekers. Here, the echoes of the past are as tangible as the gritty sand beneath your feet. Searching for historical arrowheads is not just a hobby; it's akin to touching history—each piece telling a story of a bygone era. And for the thrill-seekers, nothing beats the rush of adrenaline as you zip across the seemingly endless dunes on a four-wheeler, with the wind as your companion and the sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors. It's the kind of fun that imprints on your memory, unique to this rugged yet beautiful part of the world.
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Population Fluctuations
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I grew up in Jackson Hole, Wyoming where the population fluctuates according to the season. In the summer there are many tourists and the town seems to double in size. At first the influx of people was overwhelming, but I would get used to it. Plus, living in a tourist town allows you to meet people from all over the world!
Wyoming's winters, by contrast, bring a quiet calm to Jackson Hole as the tourist numbers dwindle. Many locals cherish this time, finding solace in the stark beauty and serene snowscapes. Despite the chill, there's a warmth in the tight-knit community as we gather by cozy fireplaces. Warm drinks and shared stories become nightly rituals, reminding us that even in the coldest months, the heart of our small town beats strong.
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Rodeos Everywhere
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Rodeos are very common in Wyoming. In fact, I don’t think I have ever been to a town in Wyoming that didn’t have a rodeo. In the summer rodeos are held every weekend, and they are a lot of fun to go to. The bull rides are heart pounding; everyone wants the cowboy to stay on the full 8 seconds!
These festive gatherings aren't just for the local folks; they draw crowds from all over, eager to experience the raw energy and tradition. Whether you're watching barrel racing, calf roping, or enjoying the lively announcers, the excitement is palpable. It's not just entertainment; it's a cultural staple that celebrates the cowboy heritage. Moreover, for many participants, rodeo is a competitive sport that requires skill and nerve, fostering a deep sense of community among riders and spectators alike. It's a must-see for anyone looking to capture the true spirit of Wyoming.
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Real Cowboys
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Believe it or not cowboys do still exist and they don’t just go to the rodeo. Living in Wyoming, I knew a lot of cowboys who worked on cattle ranches. They are the nicest people, and they do in fact wear cowboy boots. They also often wear cowboy hats.
Cowboys are more than a Hollywood invention. They're a hardworking bunch who know their way around cattle and aren't afraid of a hard day's labor under the Wyoming sky. Their craft is not just a job but a lifestyle that prioritizes respect for the land and animals. Beyond their iconic attire, these cowboys possess a set of skills that have been passed down through generations; from horseback riding to lassoing and cattle herding. Friendliness runs in their veins, and their handshake is as solid as their stance in the stirrups.
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Love is like a friendship caught on fire. In the beginning a flame, very pretty, often hot and fierce, but still only light and flickering. As love grows older, our hearts mature and our love becomes as coals, deep-burning and unquenchable.
Chilly Halloweens
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October in Wyoming can be very cold, which means there is often snow on Halloween. As a result, it is very common for little kids’ Halloween costumes to include a snowsuit. All of my Halloween costumes were made two sizes bigger so I could wear my snowsuit underneath. Because they were so big, I actually still fit into most of them!
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Abundant Wildlife
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Wildlife in Wyoming is abundant. I grew up seeing deer, moose, buffalo, bears, and mountain goats. The National Elk Refuge was just a few miles from my school, which means I saw elk every day during the winter! Being able to see wildlife every day is one of the great blessings of living in Wyoming.
Living in Wyoming can definitely be a unique experience. However, it can also be really fun. I actually enjoyed trick-or-treating in my snowsuit, and there is nothing like seeing a baby bear for the first time! If you ever have the chance to visit Wyoming, I highly recommended it. It is a great state to visit. Have you ever been to Wyoming?
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