I may not have chosen to grow up in Maryland, but I did decide to continue to live here (and trust me, I have thought about moving away, California always sounds nice). There is just something about Maryland that keeps me here and keeps me happy. On this day, 380 years ago, the first European settlers landed on what is now known as the great state of Maryland. In honor of Maryland day, I bring you 15 reasons why Maryland is amazing (in no particular order and by no means, an all-encompassing list):

1. We have all 4 seasons. Yes, while snow at the end of March is not ideal, it is going to be in the 60s later this week. Maryland, you’re crazy. I like you, but you’re crazy.

2. Getting crabs in Maryland is not a bad thing. Blue crabs that is.

3. We have it all. Beaches, mountains, cities, farmland. You can hike, bike, swim, or boat. Whatever your little heart desires.

4. The National Aquarium is in Maryland. No, not the Baltimore Aquarium, not the Maryland Aquarium, it is the National Aquarium. We don’t mess around when it comes to our fishies.

5. Two words: Old Bay. I grew up putting this on everything… popcorn, pizza, crabs, french fries, chicken, macaroni and cheese, corn on the cob, potato chips… heck, I’ve even tried Old Bay ice cream. I now work at McCormick & Company where I get to talk about Old Bay everyday AND it’s encouraged. Can you say dream job?

6. Maryland is really funny shape, which makes for great jewelry. A square with a heart in it just wouldn’t be the same (no offense Colorado, you’re still awesome).

7. We have this crazy, yet beautiful flag. It’s yellow. It’s red. It’s in your face. Who came up with this pattern? I like it. Plus it makes for some great clothing and accessories. Thank you Route One Apparel. (Photo credit: @linnylou_who, Twitter, posted on Route One Apparel’s Facebook Page)

8. Maryland is home to many historic towns. Annapolis, Baltimore, Frederick, Old Ellicott City, and so much more. Some of my favorite times are spent wandering historic main streets exploring the shops and restaurants (and apparently I like to take photos of couples holding hands in these places).

9. We’re not quite “Northern,” we’re not quite “Southern,” which means when we head north or south, we don’t quite fit in, but the silver lining is that no one really dislikes us.

10. Maryland makes some damn fine beer. Flying Dog, Heavy Seas, Union Brewery, DuClaw, Brewer’s Alley, and so many other craft brewers. It’s easier to “buy local” when your local beer is top notch.

11. Location, location, location. While Maryland is great, variety is the spice of life. We are within close proximity to many other top US cities. Wherever you might be in Maryland, you could wake up one morning and take a day trip to DC, Philadelphia, NYC, and more. No big deal.

12. You can only find Berger cookies here. They are rich and decadent. Sure, the FDA’s proposed ban on trans fat could put them out of business, but you know it is worth it.

13. I have not met many other people in the US that have quite as much county pride as Maryland residents. I’ve actually met people from other states that have no idea what county they are in. Nonetheless, we rep the counties we grew up or live in like no other (hocofoshoyo, now with bmore street cred).

14. It might not be cheap to reside here, but it sure is cheaper than DC.

15. This is birdland. Through thick and through thin, we support our Baltimore Orioles and Ravens.