Ah, Maryland. Md. Mhurrrrrrrland. Marylan. It's always been home to me, and will always have a special place in my heart. When I'm asked what I miss most about my home state, I'm not really sure what to pinpoint: Maryland is so exciting! I have so much love for Maryland, and here are 7 reasons why Maryland is the greatest:
1. Location, Location, Location
Compared to Utah, Maryland is a tiny state. It's only 12,407 square miles, compared to Utah's 84,899 square miles. However, small is not bad! Because it's smack dab in the center of the East Coast, traveling to other states from Maryland, especially the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeast, is so easy! From my hometown, I can drive for about an hour and be in another state. When I traveled up the coast for a trip, I made it to New Hampshire in 7 hours! Maryland borders Washington DC, and Baltimore is a major city. The Chesapeake Bay is one of the coolest places ever, and Ocean City is not far away at all.
2. History
Maryland might not the flashiest state, but it's one of the oldest- the 7th ratified in the Constitution! It's nickname, the Old Line State, is in reference to the Mason-Dixon Line, which is the state's northern border. This line divides the North and South- Maryland is actually a Southern State. Maryland contains some of the oldest European settlements, including Saint Mary's City, which is an active archaeological dig. Maryland is also home to different native tribes, and some of the languages are used to describe different landmarks, including Chesapeake.
3. Pop-Culture Prominence
Without Maryland, we wouldn't have some of our staples in society. Francis Scott Key, a Marylander, wrote the "Star Spangled Banner" in Fort McHenry, Md. Edgar Allen Poe was a native of Baltimore, so was Billie Holliday and David Byrne. John Waters (a native as well) wrote the breakout broadway/movie hit "Hairspray" about Baltimore, and "The Wire", a gritty drama is also based in the city. And due to its long and complex history, Maryland is a place for many ghost tours. The library in the Peabody Institute stood as the inspiration for the library in "Beauty and the Beast"
4. Au Natural
The natural parts of Maryland are absolutely stunning: there's a reason it's called Little America! The western part of the state houses the Appalachian Mountains, the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake surround the Eastern Shore of the state, central Maryland is farms, forests, and fields. Marylanders experience all 4 seasons, and each is impeccable in its own way. Fall leaves are a plethora of colors, and sidewalks turn into seas of red, orange, and yellow. Winter gets to be pretty cold, and the snow is perfect for snowball fights, forts, and snowmen. Spring is in bloom in Maryland, and petals blossom on every tree. Summer can get very hot, but there's a variation of heat.
5. Animals
The animal life in the state is nothing to be scoffed at. Animal like deer, fox, and raccoons are far too common in backyards. Many different birds, from the smallest chickadee to the large great horned owl populate the skies of the state, and along with the many land animals, Maryland is host to a variety of sea life, including our famous blue-shelled crabs. And speaking of crabs,
6. WE GOT CRABS (and other foods)
Crabs are one of the staples of Maryland cuisine. Crab cakes are presented in restaurants across the state and are absolutely delicious. The cakes are made even better by the fresh crab found in the Chesapeake Bay. However, crabs are not the only fabulous fish dish. Seafood in very common in the state due to the proximity of the ocean and even store-bought sushi is delicious. The many farms in Maryland produce everything, from sweet corn to Brussels sprouts. The fresh and local produce, plus the fresh seafood make a fabulous feast
7. Pride
Finally, Marylanders love their state, and it shows. The Maryland flag is worn in many different ways, and if I find Marylanders when I'm out of state, I feel an instant connection. We know that our state is the greatest, and I feel so happy that I can share what I love about it.
