As a resident of a southern state, I would like to take this opportunity to shout out the greatest grocery chain in the U.S. -- Publix. If you had the pleasure of living near a Publix (or in many cases, multiple Publix locations), you had a specific Publix that was your Publix. You knew every aisle inside and out, could successfully tackle the store in minutes if need be, and maybe even knew the woman behind the bakery counter who would give you an extra cookie or two. Even after my family moved away from our Publix, and closer to another location I might add, we still drove the extra .5 miles to the one we knew and loved.

Here are 10 of the reasons why that demonstrate why the Publix love is real.

1. Those free cookies in the bakery.

Easily the best part of the shopping trip. And, more than likely, the only reason I'd want to go with my parents.

2. Publix brand.

Not only is it cheaper, there's a good chance it's a quality dupe for whatever product you may have been searching for. Trust me on this one.

3. BOGO deals.

Or basically any coupon promotion they run. I personally check the Publix ad right before I go grocery shopping, every time. You just can't beat buying something and getting a free one... common sense, people. It's a steal.

4. Chicken. Tender. Subs.

Or, Publix chicken anything. Rotisserie, fried, tenders -- you name it. Publix can do no wrong in this realm, in my opinion.

5. Publix chocolate chip cookies.

I mentioned the free cookies before, but the chocolate chip variety needs it's own special mention. No other store bought cookie measures up to these bad boys. And they never, ever will. Do they just taste better out of this plastic package?! They're pure magic.

6. Customer service.

I have yet to come into contact with a rude Publix employee. They are always pleasant and seem to be relatively happy to be working there. Publix must be doing something right because shopping is truly a pleasure there.

7. Publix brand Peppermint Stick ice cream.

Okay, this might be something only I am obsessed with -- but trust me when I say you must try this during the next holiday season. It's the bomb.

8. Publix's Greenwise selections.

Some locations have an aisle dedicated solely to Greenwise -- otherwise known as the Publix brand organic selections. If not, Greenwise products are spread throughout the store. Publix is makin' easy for you to be healthy, look at that.

9. Publix Sweet Tea.

Honestly, the best sweet tea out there. No contest.

10. Publix cake.

You're lying if you say you got your birthday cake anywhere else. The best buttercream frosting coupled with their delicious and dense vanilla (or chocolate, I don't discriminate) cake. It's unlike any other.

There ya have it, folks. 10 reasons to get up and drive to the nearest Publix right now -- as if you needed them.