This morning I woke up, pulled on my boots and parka, and trudged out the door into a world of ice. Slipping and nearly face planting twice, I was relieved when I finally made it to class. Today was nothing new. Yesterday, my wet hair froze solid when I went out in six-degree air. Last week, there was snow up to my knees. It's times like these when I begin to fantasize about moving to Hawaii or Florida or somewhere that I wouldn't have to scrape my car before getting into it. It doesn't take long, however, for me to remember that I'm incredibly lucky to be right where I am. So, in case anyone else is starting to forget, here are the top reasons why we're spoiled to live in Michigan.

First of all, getting to experience all the seasons really is amazing. Not all states get flowers in the spring, heat in the summer, pretty leaves in the fall, and snow in the winter. Imagine never building igloos or jumping in leaf piles as a kid! Being able to ski, plant a garden, tan by a pool, and sip hot cocoa all in the same exact place is a luxury that we don't even recognize. In Michigan, we get to do it all, and I look forward to these things every year. Although the weather can be crazy and unpredictable, the long winters make those 80 degree days in July extra special.

The best way to spend those days? How 'bout at one of the 62,798 lakes we get to call our own? The Great Lakes alone are so incredible and unique. There's nothing better than searching for Petoskey stones on a rocky beach or spending an afternoon kayaking in the sun. No other state can boast about being surrounded by so much fresh water and too often we take it for granted. Not to mention the overall natural beauty of our home. From the Sleeping Bear Dunes to Pictured Rocks; from Tahquamenon Falls to the never-ending forests, every corner of the mitten has something gorgeous to offer.

The people in Michigan are pretty swell, too. Being in the Midwest, people are just friendly in our state. It's not uncommon to strike up a conversation with a stranger or to smile at someone on the sidewalk. We brave a lot of weather, which makes us strong, community-focused, and ready for anything.

In Michigan, there's a happy balance of small towns, large cities, cornfields, and tourist attractions, usually all within a few hours' drive of each other. It's easy to pile some friends in a car and take a road trip to see something new. Each big city has a flair and personality of all its own. We have a large number of excellent universities that people come from all over the world to attend, and our young people are determined to make a difference in the world.

I don't care what anyone says, you will not find better cherries or apple cider outside of Michigan. You won't find another magical island where the streets smell like chocolate fudge and horses pull carriages. You won't find a better place to curl up with a Vernors float and watch the sun set over Lake Superior. And these, my friends, are just a few reasons why, despite the ice, snow, and frigid temperatures we're experiencing right now, Michigan is and always will be our home; and we are SO lucky to be here.