Lem,
I lived in cities my whole life; New York, DC, Philly, Buffalo, etc. I am done with them. The Vermonters use the Flatlander term as a derogatory slur. I say to them I am PROUD to be a Flatlander, which takes them by surprise. I am glad I did not grow up here. I came here for a certain way of life. But I do remember "when in Rome do as the Romans". I respect their way of life and do not try to change things. I have slowly been accepted into this small town. But I will always be a Flatlander as will my two kids born in Vermont!!! It is however embarassing to walk into the corner store in lycra when the locals are coming out of the woods during hunting season.
