For the past three years, I have been spending my summers at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, NM. I've written plenty about my love of Philmont before, however, I've never written a love letter to the beautiful state it's located in. Though Colorado is my home, New Mexico is so incredible in ways that will stay with you forever. So as I sit here in my second home, I want to share ten things about the state of New Mexico that truly make it the land of enchantment.

1. The desert

The desert in New Mexico is absolutely stunning. You can see for miles, and red ground mixed with the blue sky is such pure beauty that you can rarely find anywhere outside of a painting.

2. The mountains

Northern New Mexico is home to the rocky mountains, the same mountains that other states like Colorado and Utah are better known for. Despite the mountains in the area being less famous than it's brethren in other states, the Rockies are still just as absolutely gorgeous.

3. The art

There is a huge arts community in New Mexico. The town of Santa Fe alone is home to such beautiful art galleries, the Santa Fe Art Institute and even a museum dedicated to Georgia O'Keefe.

4. The food

Amazing Mexican food can be found across the state. On top of that, green chiles are a staple in every dish you can think of in the state. If you're a fan of spicy food like myself, New Mexico is the place to be.

5. The architecture

Adobe-style buildings are in abundance in New Mexico. From downtown buildings to businesses to homes, the architecture is incredibly unique.

6. The culture

With it's Native American and Mexican routes, the history and culture of New Mexico are incredibly rich. There are many festivals throughout the state celebrating the diverse cultures that make up New Mexico.

7. The parks and monuments

From a fourth of the Four Corners to White Sands Nationals Monument, to the Gila Cliff Dwellings, to everything in between, New Mexico is home to some of the most amazing parts of nature that a person can visit.

8. The weather

Only in the west can you have sun, snow, and thunderstorms all in the same day. Today in northern New Mexico, I experienced all of that. Even in my home of Colorado, the weather isn't as unpredictable, and that's saying a lot. The unpredictability of the weather, however, is part of what makes New Mexico great. You can have all season in one day.

9. The towns

I've traveled a lot, but some of my favorite places that I have visited are in New Mexico. From to hipster vibe of Santa Fe, to the large city and suburbs of Albuquerque, to the mountain town of Taos, and every town in between, New Mexico is home to some of the best places to visit.

10. The way it stays with you forever

The only other state that has left such an imprint on me is Colorado, and I've spent way more time there than I have in New Mexico. Something about it draws you in and makes you never want to leave.