Oh, the sun shines bright on my old Kentucky home. I might be a little biased, but Kentucky is one of the greatest places on earth. It's full of fascinating history, beautiful landscapes, and some pretty awesome people. Here are just a few of the reasons to love the Bluegrass State:

1. The Derby

The hats, the horses, the mint juleps; all of these come together to make the most exciting two minutes in sports, an event like none other. People travel from all over the world just to see what it's all about.

2. The People

Kentuckians, to some people, have a negative stereotype. Let me tell ya, that stereotype couldn't be any further from the truth. Residents of Kentucky are some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. Southern hospitality is found as soon as you cross the border. Some of the world's greatest talents came from this very state. Jennifer Lawrence, Johnny Depp, and George Clooney are just a few examples. (And I promise we all wear shoes and don't marry our cousins.)

3. Abraham Lincoln

One of our nation's most important Presidents called Kentucky his home. I mean the guy ended slavery and kept the United States from falling apart. He's a pretty awesome guy. When talking about the Civil War, he stated, "I hope to have God on my side, but I must have Kentucky." We love you too, Abe.

4. The Food

We basically invented fried chicken...or perfected it anyway. KFC isn't the only thing Kentucky has gifted the world. If you've never had an Ale-8, you've never had heaven in liquid form. Ski, bourbon, and hot brown are also part of the list of Kentucky-born food and drinks that goes on and on.

5. The Sites

Kentucky has beauty everywhere you look. We have some of the most unique attractions in the world. From Mammoth Cave and Cumberland Falls to Natural Bridge and big cities, there's always an adventure to be found. With the metropolitan areas of Lousiville and Lexington and the mountain skies of Eastern Kentucky, this state has everything you could possibly want.

6. The Sports

When you ask people what comes to mind when they think of Kentucky, you're probably going to get one of three answers: horses, fried chicken, or basketball. The rivalry between the Kentucky Wildcats and Louisville Cardinals is unparalleled. We don't mess around when it comes to basketball, y'all.

7. The Music

What other state can say there is a genre of music named after them? Bluegrass music is one of Kentucky's most treasured possessions. But if that's not your taste, there are so many other great musicians of all genres that came from the Bluegrass State. Probably one of the most well-known is Sundy Best. From Floyd County in Eastern KY, their music shares their love for Kentucky and all the people in it. Go to a concert. I promise you won't regret it.

As you can see, there are so many wonderful things to love about the great state of Kentucky. Give us a visit. You might fall in love with it, too.