10 Reasons The Entire Country Should Be Thankful For Florida

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, we've been thinking a lot about things we're thankful for. It's easy to take it for granted sometimes and to forget all the things our home has to offer. Here are just 10 reasons why everyone should be thankful for Florida:

1. Sunscreen

The first sunscreen was invented by Benjamin Green in 1944 to protect soldiers from the intense sun exposure in the Pacific. This sticky red goo eventually became Coppertone. So next time you return from the beach without being burned to a crisp, thank Florida!

2. Citrus

Florida produces most of the citrus grown in the country. We have so much of it we have to squeeze 95% of it just to save space.

3. Theme Parks

Florida has a theme park for anything and everything you might be interested in. For our region, Orlando is definitely the best place for theme parks.

4. Gatorade

Everyone knows Gatorade was created by University of Florida scientists in the 1960s, right? Come on, it's in the name!

5. Winter retreats

Without Florida, hundreds of thousands of people would be shoveling now and cursing the cold weather wherever they're from. We may not always be happy hosts, but it beats living through actual winter.

6. Famous Amos cookies

These delicious cookies were created by entrepreneur, author, talent agent and TV personality Wally Amos, who was born in Tallahassee, FL. He started out sending the cookies to potential clients, and they later ended up in supermarkets across the nation.

7. Apalachicola oysters

Though they've become scarce in recent years, Apalachicola oysters have long been considered among the biggest and best in the world.

8. Vacation paradise

From pristine beaches to over-the-top theme parks, Florida provides happy memories that will last a lifetime for thousands of families every year.

9. Key lime pie

The official pie of the state of Florida was created by botanist Jack Simons in the early 20th century in Key West. This Thanksgiving, why not add a Key lime pie to the dessert table?

10. Publix Super Markets

Though these grocery stores are still most popular in Florida, they have taken hold in several other Southern states. We're sure someday (once everyone has tried a Pub sub), they'll take over the world.

Why do you think everyone should be thankful for Florida? Please leave your comments below. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!