I am proud to be from New York state, and it doesn’t get much better than being Westchester county born-and-raised. I obviously do not live in New York anymore and sometimes I reminisce about how great it is in the 914. There’s so much to love about Best-Chester, but here are a few key things.

1. People just know how to drive

And the Taconic will take you wherever you are going (just look out for those potholes).

2. People aren’t afraid to drive in snow

Unlike some parts of the USA (ahem, the South), every business does not come to a pause when there is a dusting of snow on the ground.

3. The snow on trees can actually be pretty

That is something you realize when you don't live in Westchester anymore and have to shovel yourself out of your driveway multiple times a month in winter.

4. Dunkin Donuts is your go-to for a good iced coffee

How can you blame us when there are, like, 8 Dunkins within a 10-mile radius

5. Running into at least 3 people you know when you're grocery shopping.

You should expect to have to say, "Hey, how you doing!?" to a few acquaintances before you can get out of Shop-Rite.

6. There are amazing natural features like waterfalls, mountains, dams and the good old Hudson River.

If you grew up in Westchester you automatically appreciate nature because there are so many scenic places to visit.

7. Going to Yankee games

Put on your Yankee jersey/tee shirt and cap, hop on the train, and head to the Bronx.

8. Going to Jets or Giants games

You’re probably going to watch them lose, but it’s still fun to see pros play in the stadium rather than on TV.

9. Always having amazing concerts to go to

Westchester peeps are so lucky to have artists perform at venues within an hour or two.

10. Going apple picking on beautiful farms in the fall

There is no other way to celebrate fall than spending a day picking apples and getting apple cider and pumpkin spice donuts to take home. The fall foliage is unreal in Westchester.

11. You can get your nails done right, for cheap.

The mani-pedi combos are always a great deal. Not to mention the person doing your nails has seen you every other week for years.

12. News 12 is always on

Bonus points if you or someone you know has seen themselves on the air.

13. If you want to spend some bucks, go to Woodbury Commons Outlets

There are so many bougie stores and it’s so close!

14. Things are fast paced and we keep small talk to a minimum

Other regions of the country don’t get that New Yorkers like to mind our business and keep it movin’.

15. Some of the best hiking trails in the country

I mean besides maybe the Grand Canyon, Westchester has ridiculously beautiful views from mountains.

16. The pizzerias, bagel stores, and delis

These locations raised me, not a week went by that I didn't have a slice of pizza, a perfectly cooked bagel, or a bacon egg and cheese.

17. Trips to Arthur Avenue

Also known as Italian carb heaven, is always a fun day trip.

18. New. York. City.

The best, busiest city is only a bridge away (and so are the other boroughs, they are alright, too). But no one cares about Long Island or Jersey.