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Destination Happy Place! S TAFF R EPORT T HE H EART OF A LABAMA IS BLESSED TO BE IN SUCH CLOSE PROXIMITY TO SEVERAL INCREDIBLE BODIES OF WATER . H EAD NORTH AND IN UNDER AN HOUR YOU CAN BE AT BEAUTIFUL L AKE M ARTIN OR L AKE J ORDAN . H EAD SOUTH AND IN AS LITTLE AS THREE HOURS YOU CAN BE SUNNING ON THE BEAUTIFUL WHITE SAND BEACHES OF A LABAMA ’ S AND F LORIDA ’ S G ULF COAST . or many, these bodies of water represent a “happy place.” A happy place is defined as a place where a person is able to reduce stress and calm down. According to the Daily Positive website it is “a place we can go, no matter what is happening in our lives, and find peace there. It's a reliable safe haven for happiness, the place that allows us to breathe a deep sigh of relief when we arrive and much like comfort food, it warms us from the inside out.” That’s why it seemed especially cruel that COVID-19 amped up the stress in our lives while simultaneously closing down our “happy places.” Not only that, we were told that vitamin D in the form of sunshine would help ward off the virus and improve our moods while also being warned to stay inside. But fling open the doors, load the car, and run … don’t walk! Our happy places are open! Here are just a few ideas for maximizing your experience in and around the water this summer: • Enjoy the water sports — Come on in the water feels great! Grab the inter tubes and float lazily on the lake or ride the waves in the Gulf. The boat ramps are open so don’t wait an- other day to put that boat back in the water. Break out the water skis, wake boards, and Seadoos — time to have fun in the sun and on the water! • Take a hike — If you’re in need of acquiring your land legs after so much water activity, there are many options available. Whether you are enjoying the lake or the gulf, the many trails allow you to stretch your legs and enjoy the beauty of your natural surroundings. People are strongly encouraged to practice social distancing and stay at least 6 feet from each other. • Go golfing — We know you’re excited to get on and in the water, but there are many great golf courses near the lake and the Gulf. So dry off for a day and if you want to maintain that bathing suit ready figure then skip the golf cart! • Go fishing — Maximize your vitamin D, experience the thrill of the catch, and then enjoy the fruit of your labors! A fishing 26 AL/ Metro 360 www.almetro360.com DESTINATIONS................................................................................................................................ F