Growing up in Hungary, I experienced the four seasons year in and year out, and I couldn’t imagine not living in a place where the seasons don’t vary. When I told my mom I decided to go to Chicago for college, she joked I’d experience winter in April. She’d lived in Montreal when she was younger, and by the third year couldn’t bear a sub-zero April. Although it’s never been as bad here in Chicago, this winter was a preview of what my mom was talking about. We only got a little bit in Chicago in early April, but much of the northeast was slammed with a March snowstorm and one last storm made its way across the Midwest a few weeks ago.

Despite this cold spring we’re having in Chicago, here are 7 reasons I wouldn’t give up experiencing the four seasons throughout the year:

1. The winter helps me appreciate the summer

Freezing my butt off in the Chicago winter helps me appreciate the warm summer months.

2. There's nothing quite as magical as the colors of fall

The way the leaves change color in the fall is something I look forward to every year when the summer nights start to cool off and I reach for a jacket and jeans instead of shorts and a t-shirt.

3. I enjoy changing my closet and wardrobe

I’ve never been one to pack away winter items out of sight once the weather warms up out of habit from growing up. I do enjoy the chance to change the types of clothes I wear throughout the year because in just a few short months I grow tired of shorts and t-shirts and want to wear sweaters and leggings again.

4. The sight of the first snow

Although the slush and brown mush buildup is unsightly, the first snow is always magical.

5. The relief of the last snow

Even though the first snow is magical, the last snow is relieving because despite the hassle you’re done with it for now…until next year.

6. The first blossoms of spring

With the melting of the last snow and the last passing snowstorm, the chirping birds, longer days and the first blossoms of flowers remind me spring is around the corner.

7. The way the city changes throughout the year

Seasonal changes also bring about changes to a city. In the summer, more people are out and the beach is a prime hangout spot. In the fall and spring, the pleasant weather makes for perfect photography weather, and the cold winter forces you inside.