Oh, NOLA -- if you've lived here long enough, the city has certainly challenged you. I think that's why it's so important to remember, as often as you can, all the things there are to love about living in New Orleans -- because truly, there are so many things! Here are 13 amazing things to love about New Orleans.

1. The Food

Growing up in New Orleans, food was never an afterthought. Truly, more often than not, it was the main event! There are some amazing places to eat here--and you definitely don't have to break the bank!

2. The Friendliness

There's something so amazing about the way people will actually say hello to you here, and mean it. I never worry about sitting in a bar alone--more often than not I'm going to meet someone I know!

3. The Beauty

New Orleans is just breathtaking. It's a photographer's paradise. There's just so much to sink into and marvel in here.

4. The Community

There's an amazing community of people in this city that really know how to take care of each other, even when things are difficult.

5. The Spirited Debates

In New Orleans, people never hesitate to let you know how they feel about something or another. It's something I absolutely love about being here.

6. The Characters

Oh wow. There are some truly unique people who call New Orleans their home. And I always feel blessed every time I get to meet them.

7. The Unique Quality

There's this ineffable something about living and breathing in New Orleans that makes it really hard to live anywhere else.

8. The People

Wow. New Orleans truly has some of the most amazing people in the country. Creatives, artists, thinkers, and doers--New Orleans has it all!

9. The Costumes

In New Orleans, costuming is a way of life--and I just love soaking up all of the creativity!

10. The Dancing

Mm...sometimes you just have to dance it out! Luckily New Orleans is there to show you how.

11. The Music

Of course! Where would New Orleans be without all of the incredible music that was born here?

12. The Spices

Pssst...this is the secret to the cooking. (And why it's hard to eat food anywhere else).

13. The Freedom

In New Orleans, Laissez les bon temps roulez is not just a catch phrase. It's a way of life.

What do you love most about living in New Orleans? What was missing from this list? We'd love to hear your thoughts and feedback! Let us know what you love about New Orleans!

Looking for more fun around Louisiana? Check out this footage of one of the region's most stunning state parks: