Things Only People Who Grew Up On A Trailer Park Will Understand
Tight-Knit Community
Image Source: Reddit
Growing up in a trailer park, you understand the unique sense of community that forms among your neighbors. It's like having an extended family right outside your door, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a meal. When one neighbor faces a challenge, the whole community rallies together to support them, creating bonds that last a lifetime.
"Double-Wides" and "Single-Wides"
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You quickly learn the difference between "double-wide" and "single-wide" trailers. The size of your home becomes a significant part of your identity, and you take pride in it. Whether it's the extra space of a double-wide or the coziness of a single-wide, your trailer's size is a topic of friendly banter among neighbors, each defending their choice with a smile.
Creative Space Utilization
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Living in a trailer teaches you the art of maximizing small spaces. Every nook and cranny is used efficiently, and you become a master of organization. You discover ingenious storage solutions, like using the space beneath your bed for extra clothing or turning the hallway into a mini-library, all while maintaining a sense of comfort and coziness.
Hurricane Prep
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You're well-versed in hurricane preparation, from boarding up windows to securing outdoor items. Trailer park life means you're always ready for Mother Nature's wild side. When the hurricane warnings flash on TV, you and your neighbors swing into action, making sure everyone is safe and that homes are fortified against the impending storm.
Impromptu Gatherings
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Spontaneous get-togethers are the norm. Your front porch or yard becomes the perfect spot for impromptu barbecues or potlucks, where everyone brings something to share. Whether it's celebrating a birthday or just enjoying a beautiful evening, these gatherings exemplify the sense of camaraderie that makes trailer park life so special.
Trailer Park Lingo
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You speak a unique language, with terms like "lot rent," "trailer hitch," and "septic tank" woven into your daily conversations. These words aren't just vocabulary; they're symbols of your shared lifestyle. You know that when someone mentions "lot rent," they might be sharing their budgeting woes, and "septic tank" discussions can lead to tales of DIY plumbing adventures.
Mailbox Socials
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Meeting your neighbors at the mailbox is a daily ritual. It's a chance to catch up on the latest gossip, news, and neighborhood happenings. You share laughter, swap stories about kids and pets, and sometimes even discover surprising connections with folks you've known for years but never really talked to until now.
The "Trailer Park Manager"
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The trailer park manager is a legendary figure. They're part landlord, part mediator, and part local authority figure. You know that a visit to their office can be an adventure in itself, as they juggle maintenance requests, disputes, and the occasional rule enforcement. Yet, their role is essential in maintaining the harmony of your community.
The Art of Skirting
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Skirting your trailer isn't just a fashion statement; it's a necessity. You know how to install and maintain skirting to keep your home insulated and critter-free. It's a skill you've honed over the years, with an array of materials and techniques, ensuring your home stays cozy in the winter and critters stay out year-round.
Unique Yard Decor
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Yard decorations take on a whole new level of creativity. From plastic flamingos to garden gnomes, you appreciate the diverse range of lawn ornaments in your community. Each neighbor's yard is a canvas of self-expression, and you love seeing how they transform their outdoor spaces with a touch of whimsy or personal style.
Friendly Stray Animals
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Stray cats and dogs often find their way to your doorstep. You become adept at providing food and shelter for these furry friends. Your porch becomes a safe haven, and you've become known as the go-to person for helping lost or abandoned animals, a reputation you wear with pride.
Laundry Mat Adventures
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Trips to the local laundromat become weekly adventures. You've mastered the art of lugging heavy laundry baskets and making small talk with fellow park residents. It's not just about clean clothes; it's a chance to swap stories, share laundry hacks, and maybe even find a lost sock that somehow ended up in someone else's load.
Porch Sitting
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Your porch is your throne, and you spend hours watching the world go by, waving to neighbors, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. It's where you sip your morning coffee, exchange smiles with passersby, and witness the changing seasons. From there, you've seen kids grow up, couples in love, and the beauty of everyday life in your trailer park.
Community Cookouts
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Community cookouts are epic affairs. Everyone pitches in, bringing their signature dishes, and it's a feast like no other. You savor the tantalizing aromas that waft through the air as grills fire up, and potluck tables overflow with homemade delicacies. It's not just about food; it's a celebration of unity and the joy of sharing moments with those who feel like family.
Respect for Space
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You learn to respect your neighbor's space and privacy, even though trailers are often close together. Good fences (or in this case, walls) make good neighbors. You understand the unspoken boundaries that maintain harmony within the park. It's a lesson in living in close quarters while preserving individuality and mutual respect.
Trailer Maintenance
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You become a DIY expert in trailer maintenance, from fixing leaks to patching up siding. It's a rite of passage. Your toolbox is your best friend, and YouTube tutorials are your teachers. You take pride in keeping your home in top shape, learning valuable skills along the way that you might never have explored otherwise.
The Sound of Rain on a Tin Roof
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The soothing sound of rain on your trailer's tin roof becomes your lullaby. It's a comforting and familiar melody. On rainy nights, you lie in bed, listening to the rhythmic pitter-patter, feeling safe and cozy. It's a sound that transcends the walls of your home and connects you with nature.
The Ice Cream Truck Melody
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You can instantly recognize the tune of the ice cream truck from a mile away. It's a sweet childhood memory that never fades. When you hear that jingle, it's like a time machine whisking you back to carefree summer days, when a few dollars bought you the joy of a colorful ice cream cone and endless possibilities.
Hitching and Unhitching
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You've witnessed the intricate process of hitching and unhitching a trailer. It's like a well-choreographed dance that you appreciate from afar. The clinking of chains, the precise leveling, and the satisfying click as the hitch locks into place are all part of the ballet of trailer life. It's a skill that leaves you in awe, especially when executed flawlessly.
Neighborhood Watch
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You're part of a silent neighborhood watch network. You keep an eye out for unusual activity and look out for each other. Suspicious car? You take note. Unfamiliar faces? You exchange glances with your fellow vigilant neighbors. It's a collective effort to ensure safety, where everyone plays a role in the security of your tight-knit community.
Noise Reduction Hacks
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You've discovered creative ways to reduce noise in your trailer, whether it's using rugs, curtains, or even strategically placed furniture. Thin walls can be a challenge, but you've become an expert at muffling sound. Your home becomes an oasis of peace, where you can enjoy quiet moments despite the hustle and bustle outside.
Stories of Traveling Days
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You've heard stories from those who used to travel full-time in their trailers, exploring the country one trailer park at a time. Their tales are like pages from an adventure novel, filled with picturesque landscapes, quirky encounters, and the freedom to chase horizons. These stories fuel your wanderlust and inspire dreams of your own road trips.
Seasonal Decorations
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Trailer park residents take seasonal decorations seriously. Halloween and Christmas are celebrated with elaborate displays that light up the night. From spooky skeletons and cobwebs to twinkling lights and inflatable Santas, your community transforms into a festive wonderland during the holidays. Each trailer competes in a friendly decorating competition that brings joy to all.
Limited Parking Space
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Parking space is a precious commodity, and you've learned to make the most of it, even if it means parallel parking your car in a tight spot. You've become a master at navigating the maze of trailers, ensuring you don't block anyone's path and making sure you can access your vehicle when needed. It's a skill born out of necessity, and you've perfected it over the years.
Community Gardens
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Community gardens are a source of pride. Residents come together to cultivate everything from tomatoes to roses, creating a beautiful oasis. These vibrant patches of green are more than just gardens; they symbolize the collective effort to nurture life and beauty in a place where community bonds are as strong as the roots of those plants.
Generosity in Hard Times
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In tough times, you've witnessed the incredible generosity of your trailer park neighbors, whether it's sharing groceries or offering a helping hand. When someone faces financial hardships or personal struggles, the community rallies to provide support. It's a reminder that in your tight-knit world, kindness knows no bounds.
Homemade Remedies
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You've learned about homemade remedies and fixes for common trailer issues, like using duct tape for almost everything. Whether it's patching up a leaky roof or mending a broken step, the resourcefulness of trailer park residents knows no bounds. It's a testament to the creativity that blooms in your community.
Trailer Park Stories
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Each trailer has a story, and you've heard tales of previous owners, renovations, and memorable moments that have happened within those walls. These stories are like chapters in a shared history book, passed down from one generation of residents to the next. They remind you that your home is more than just a structure; it's a vessel for the stories of those who've lived there.
Backyard Fire Pits
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Backyard fire pits are a common sight, where neighbors gather around for stories, marshmallow roasting, and warmth on chilly evenings. The crackling fire becomes the centerpiece of storytelling, laughter, and connection. It's where friendships are forged and cherished memories are created under the starlit sky.
The Beauty of Trailer Park Life
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Above all, growing up in a trailer park has taught you that home is where the heart is, and community is what truly matters. Despite the stereotypes, you know that there's a unique and beautiful world within those trailer park gates. It's a world where resilience, camaraderie, and the simple joys of life thrive, proving that happiness can be found in the most unexpected places.
Celebs Who Grew Up On A Trailer Park: Demi Moore
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Actress Demi Moore was not only raised in a trailer park, but raised by an alcoholic mother and stepfather. She was also relocated a bunch of times which meant she was never one place long enough to make friends. She decided to change her luck by dropping out of school and finding a career as model and actress. Needless to say, it worked!
Britney Spears
image source: people.com
It was Britney Spears' aunt who lived in a trailer park, but Spears herself ended up living in her aunt's trailer due to her parents constant fighting and screaming matches. In the end, though, despite not being able to pay the bills, her parents still tried to support her financially on her quest to become a singer.
Eminem
image source: bbc.com
Eminem lived in poverty in a trailer park with his mom and brother - and his rough upbringing is nothing new to fans of his, as the rapper has openly spoke about it in music and film. Before Eminem could find a job at 15, they were evicted from the trailer. Luckily, his fortunes changed!
Hilary Swank
image source: foxnews.com
Actress Hilary Swank grew up in a trailer park, and was bullied for it before dropping out of school. When she wanted to pursue acting, her poor mother tried her best to support her - and the pair ended up living out of her mother's car while Swank attended auditions.
Ryan Gosling
image source: today.com
Ryan Gosling not only grew up in poverty, but he was bullied and friendless. He was the one who had to support his mother and help her with the bills. While he caught a break acting in the Mickey Mouse Club, he still had to live in a trailer park because his acting check was the only one to pay the bills!
Erin Moran
image source: 10news.com
Actress from Happy Days and Joanie Loves Chachi, Erin Moran not only lived in a trailer park - but was kicked out! She'd originally been evicted from her home in California after she'd already become a famous actress, and had to move into her mother's trailer. She was then kicked out for misbehavior!
Leighton Meester
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Actress and Gossip Girl star Leighton Meester was actually born in jail, after her mother was thrown behind bars for drug smuggling charges! Leighton was then made to live with her grandmother until her mother had finished serving the rest of her time in jail. That can't have been easy!
Halle Berry
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Halle Berry left home at 21 years old to try and find work in New York and fend for herself. Unfortunately, she miscalculated how expensive New York can actually be - and after her parents didn't bail her out, she ended up living in a homeless shelter to get by! She apparently didn't speak to her parents for a year, either.
Jim Carrey
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When the actor and comedian was only 12, his father lost his job, leaving the family in a difficult circumstance. Carrey dropped out of school to try and support his family. Despite Carry trying to find paying jobs, the family still lost their home and had to live in a van!
Celine Dion
image source: rollingstone.com
The legendary singer didn't always have so much money - growing up, she was living in a very low income house (a tiny one at that) with 12 other siblings! Feeding one mouth is hard enough! Dion has labelled her childhood home as a "very, very, very small house"!
Shania Twain
image source: rollingstone.com
The singer grew up in a very violent household, apparently, which also included her and her siblings being neglected and going hungry. To make it worse, when she was 21, her mom and stepdad died in a car accident, leaving her to fend for her siblings. Luckily, her singing talents started earning her money!
Kelly Clarkson
image source: people.com
After high school, Kelly Clarkson moved to LA in pursuit of her singing career - but unfortunately before it could happen, her apartment burnt down and she had to live out of her car while using the gym to shower for months. She ended up going on American Idol to try pay the bills - and we all know what happened next!
Chris Pratt
image source: cnn.com
Despite his later Hollywood success, Chris Pratt was actually homeless after high school. He ended up going to Maui with a friend, where he couldn't find a place to live - so they ended up living out of a van! Despite it being less than comfortable, he apparently called it, 'living the dream'!
Tom Cruise
image source: foxnews.com
Actor Tom Cruise had a bully of a father growing up, leading to his parents divorce. He then lived in poverty with his single mother having to constantly be on the move to try and find work. Whilst struggling with poor living, Cruise dropped out of school to try and make it as an actor - and the rest is history!
William Shatner
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William Shatner is an acting legend, but did you know Captain Kirk once lived in the back of his truck with a hard shell pulled over him? More shocking is the fact that poverty hit him after his role in Star Trek! He ended up going through a divorce and losing the money he'd earned.
Sam Worthington
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Before the success of Avatar and his other movies, Sam Worthington would have to couch surf and live out of his car while trying to find auditions. He also had to sell everything he owned while living in poverty, trying to find his big break. Despite sounding difficult, he actually always thought of himself as something of a nomad anyway!
Sarah Jessica Parker
image source: forbes.com
After her mother remarried, Sarah Jessica Parker was in a struggling household with 7 other children - far from the rich lifestyle of her Sex and the City character! Despite her family's struggles, she managed to find acting work at a very young age which kickstarted her career - and steady income!
Tyler Perry
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Writer and actor Tyler Perry once went broke when he was trying to fund a new play - but he didn't let that stop him. He ended up living in his tiny car for six years when he went homeless! To make it worse, he's a very tall guy and the car was only a Geo Metro!
Debbie Reynolds
image source: people.com
Singin' in the Rain star and mother of Carrie Fisher, Debbie Reynolds actually became homeless when her career had already taken off! After her second husband lost all of the money gambling, she almost became bankrupt and actually had to live out of her car for a while.
Jennifer Lopez
image source: glamour.co.uk
When J-Lo was trying to pursue her career dreams, her mom was less than supportive. A teen Jennifer would sleep in her dance studio instead of returning home to her mother who wanted her to go to college instead! J-Lo chose to be homeless in order to get the career she wanted.
