AZ Love Part 1

When I think about the possibility of moving somewhere else (namely California, Oregon, Virginia, Utah, or that town where the Gilmore Girls live), I can't help but think that they don't even remotely compare to my home state. Sure, our summers are too long and green foliage lacks in most of the valley, but it's totally worth it to me.

Arizona will be 100 years old this February 14th, so on behalf of each year it's been around, I'm listing 100 things I love about the Great Grand Canyon State. (No, I've never been to the Grand Canyon... pathetic, I know.)

This is part 1 of my list:

1. Mesa (not just because I was born there)

2. Greer

3. Carolina's Mexican Food (particularly their tortillas)

4. Pro Ranch Market

5. Joe's BBQ

6. 75º in January

7. Swimming (almost year-round)

8. The orange groves

9. Mesa Temple

10. Prescott

11. QT*

12. Smeeks

13. Bosa Donuts

14. ASU

15. Phoenix Suns

16. Arizona Diamondbacks

17. Sunsplash

18. Pine/Strawberry

19. The monsoon season

20. Tia Rosas

21. Scottsdale Fashion Square (which, by the way, is getting a Madewell this spring)

22. Marquee Theater

23. Zia Records

24. Wearing flip flops year-round

25. Ted's Hot Dogs

*I realize that this establishment was not created in Arizona, but the fact that we have them is a HUGE advantage for this state.