What I'll miss about Florida.

Everyone hates on Florida an awful lot, but as someone who was actually born and has lived a majority of her life in this state, I beg to defend Florida for a moment. Here are my Florida top ten: 

10. Orlando. I still tear up when I walk down Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom. There's a good reason why people from all over the world flock to the theme parks every year, despite the ridiculous prices and heat. 

9. The roads. They're flat, straight, and well-marked. Sure, there's almost constant construction on the main highways, but it's very easy to navigate in Florida. 

8. Winter. I spent nine years in the northeast, and winter stinks. I don't miss scraping ice off my windshield, having to warm up my car 15 minutes before I want to leave, or driving on slippery roads.  Give me our 70 degree highs and 50 degree lows. 

7. Sunshine!  It's not called the Sunshine State for nothing. I love the sun and being able to open the blinds and lighting up the whole house. 

6. Foliage. Or plants, to those who don't get it. I love palm trees, live oaks with gently swaying Spanish moss, azealeas in February, poinsettias in December, and orange blossoms in the spring. 

5. Thunderstorms. No, really. I adore lightning and thunder and driving rain. Nothing puts me to sleep quicker. Also, because the utility companies are so used to the weather, power outages never last long. 

4. The Strawberry Festival. It's starting to get more well-known, but it's essentially the same as it's always been: a home grown festival celebrating a lowly crop. And they have the best strawberry shortcakes. Ever. 

3. Southern hospitality. Not so much in the coastal areas, where almost everyone's from up north, but in the internal parts. My students from Lakeland and their parents are always so polite, well-mannered and sweet. 

2. Publix. Oh my gosh, how I love Publix. The stores are clean, the staff is friendly and helpful, and the food is amazing. Great hoagies custom made, incredible fried chicken and fresh sides, and a bakery to die for. I grew up getting my free cookie from the bakery and weighing myself on the huge scale by the front door. I love you, Publix. 

1.  The beach. Anyone who knows me knows this is always my number one reason for living in Florida. White sand beaches, gentle waves in the Gulf, and so many memories made by the water make the beach my favorite place to recharge. 

I do enjoy Florida. Most of the time.