As a born and raised Vermonter, I've come to realize just how amazing the little state is. Between the best ice cream in the world, charming small towns, and mysterious lake monsters, Vermont has charm like no other state. The Vermont charm and tradition is why I am so thankful to have grown up in such a wonderful place, and these ten reasons to love Vermont are just some the incredible things the state gives us.

1. The maple syrup

There's nothing like going out to breakfast and getting pure, rich, and natural maple syrup with your meal. The syrup is simply not the same anywhere else if you grew up in Vermont, which I learned the hard way. I will never take pure syrup for granted again.

2. The fall foliage

No one can deny Vermont's beauty in the fall. Driving around and looking at the trees surrounding makes me feel like I'm living in a painting every year. Tourists come from all around the world to see the colors pop, and no Vermonters can blame them- the foliage is a sight to see, and a privilege to live with.

3. Lake Champlain

Growing up on a lake was one of the most fun experiences of my childhood. Although the beaches aren't incredible, looking at the boats from the waterfront and watching the sun set over the mountains is something that I am incredibly thankful to grow up with. While the lake can be murky and sometimes washes up questionable items, the lake is part of every Vermonters character.

4. Ben & Jerry's

Our proudest possession- Ben & Jerry's. Made and manufactured in Vermont, Ben & Jerry's ice cream is our comfort and our home base. Every kid has been to the factory, and every adult wouldn't mind going back. When I miss Vermont, Ben & Jerry's never fails to make me feel like I am back home.

5. Socks & Stocks

Many look at this trend and wonder why it would exist. But, here in Vermont, Birkenstocks are welcomed and loved. While many see this as a fashion atrocity, I see it as part of the Vermont charm, and I am thankful that I am never judged for wearing socks and sandals in my little state.

6. Bernie Sanders

Our beloved senator made history in the past, this year, and continues to make history as an incredible politician and person. Vermonters often have the chance to run into Bernie in town, and every Vermonter says the same thing about him- Bernie is one of the most wholesome, real politicians out there. Bernie loves Vermont just as much as Vermont loves him, and having this relationship with my senator makes me thankful to live in such a small state.

7. The familiarity

You go to the grocery store and you see someone from high school. You go out to dinner and you see your old babysitter. You go anywhere in Vermont and you're likely to see at least one friendly face. While this can get overwhelming at times, Vermonters are some of the most welcoming people I have ever met, and you can sense the comfortable feeling of familiarity anywhere you go.

8. Burlington

Home to Church Street, the waterfront of Lake Champlain, and the University of Vermont, Burlington is one of the most incredible cities in the world. The boutiques that line Church Street welcome you in with open arms. The waterfront is filled with kids running and laughing every summer, and of course, the University of Vermont has an incredible campus. Burlington will suck you in immediately and leave a place in your heart forever like no city ever will.

9. Taking the backroads

In rural Vermont, the roads feel like they go on forever. Driving down beaten down roads and looking out the window is one of the most fun parts about living in Vermont. The mountains surround you everywhere you go. While the backroads can be torn apart and bumpy, listening to music and driving where no cars have been in days is an experience that Vermonters know too well.

10. The Vermont love

Even on days where the roads literally look like snow Hell, Vermonters are proud to be Vermonters. Coming from this state makes you strong and wholesome, and Vermonters are proud to be who they are. No matter where I go, Vermont will always have a little place in my heart.