This place has it all: not only does it border some of the largest fresh lakes in the United States, it also shares a border with our Canadian friends to the north- or south depending on where you are in the state, and can be conveniently found on the map due to its mitten shape.

I had the pleasure of growing up in Michigan, approximately forty-five minutes northwest of Detroit, in a fairly small town with more trees than people- or so it often seemed. Growing up I always dreamed of leaving Michigan in hopes of finding somewhere that was warmer in the winter time and had less leave raking in the fall. However, after moving away from the state I call home I now realize how truly special Michigan is.

Michigan is like no other. It has luscious trees, freshwater beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, plentiful fishing spots, gorgeous hiking trails, and I know no other place that has such a combined hatred of Ohio State anywhere else in the world. Whether you decide to explore downtown Detroit- which is home to gems like Shinola, The Detroit Institute of Arts or you decide to take a road trip to Mackinac Island for world famous fudge or you make the trek it to the Upper Peninsula for wonderful views, Michigan defiantly has something for you.

Michigan was home for sixteen years of my life and I am truly blessed to spend as much time as I did on the great peninsula because I got to experience lake life in the summer, apple orchard and cider mill filled fall, white winters, and rainy springs. I know Traverse City is the cherry capital of the world and that nothing beats Vernors and Better Made chips. I also got to learn from some of the best teachers in the best schools in the nation and learning about Michigan history was part of the fun as we immersed ourselves in the names of lakes and Henry Ford’s legacy. I was surrounded by the winning Red Wings and losing Lions, but one thing never changed, win or lose, Michiganders are and always will be diehard fans. I made some of my best friends in this state and I am thankful that Michigan gave us so many fun opportunities exploring outdoors with no need to crank the air conditioning in April. Frank Lloyd Wright even built houses here and Motown made Michigan its home as well. You know why? Because Michigan is something else.

Although I love where I am today, I find myself often comparing it to Michigan. I constantly think: “Where are all the trees?” “What do you mean you have never been on a lake?” and “How do you show people where you’re from when your shape isn’t shaped like your hand?”. I love the great state of Michigan with all my heart and I hope to see it again soon. Nothing will ever be able to compare to the uniqueness that Michigan possesses. Four out of the five Great Lakes prefer Michigan, and so should you.