When most folks think of growing up in Northern California they probably think of cities like San Francisco or Sacramento. Each of these huge cities have populations of 500,000 to one million people. The truth is, there are even more rural areas with small towns to grow up in Northern California. Here are 12 reasons the small towns around here are the best places of all to grow up.

1. A small town means you can see from one end of the town to the other.

Growing up in a small town meant there was probably only one or two strips where businesses and buildings sat. That wasn't always a bad thing--especially when your mom sent you on your bike to pick up groceries and ride them home...in your bike basket. Embarrassing!

2. But Here, a BFF Means BFF.

You met your best friend in kindergarten and kept her forever. She's in all your school class pictures, your senior prom photos and you were in each other's weddings. A BFF means even more when you live in a small town.

3. High school is all about this.

When you go to high school in a small town, you know pretty much EVERYONE your age. There's not a person you don't know. When you're young it drives you nuts, but when you're older you love it.

4. The mall is a BIG deal.

Driving to the mall is a BIG deal. You spend hours here--shopping, eating, and hanging out with your friends. It's THE place to be.

5. Wherever you go, everybody knows your name.

Everybody knows your name here. When you walk into a cafe or grocery store you're sure to run into someone--every time!

6. Football - Duh.

When you grow up in a small town you may not have as much to do, but that's what makes football EPIC. Coming out for a game is fun and most folks still do even when their kids aren't on the team anymore.

7. You don't need to do a background check on your date.

When you start dating, your parents know who it is. As a matter of fact, your mom probably knows their mom, too.

8. You know all the cops in town.

A small town means you know all the cops and exactly where they hang out. You know who works which shift and which one will let you slide on a traffic stop. It's not always a bad thing.

9. Either way, someone is always watching out for you.

It was always a shock when your mom knew what you were up to every day. It was always easier just to confess. There are way too many witnesses in a small town.

10. ...And they're good people who love you.

The neat thing about a small town is you don't appreciate it fully until you're older. Then, one day, you drive back and see so many dear people who are truly excited to see you. They want to know how you're doing--how the family is. And, you realize you want to know how they're doing, too.

Growing up in a small town leaves a lasting mark. There's nothing like it. How about you? Where did you grow up in Northern California?