As the world shut down last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, my family and I were faced with the challenge of finding ways to stay active and connected while also staying safe. That's when we decided to start taking our dogs on daily walks around Puddingstone Lake near our house.

At first, it was just a way to get out of the house and stretch our legs. But as the days turned into weeks and the weeks turned into months, our daily walks at Puddingstone Lake became so much more. They became a lifeline for all of us.

As we walked around the lake, we talked and laughed and enjoyed the beauty of nature. We saw the seasons change and watched the ducks and geese and other birds that call the lake home. My kids loved playing with our dogs in the grass and on the beach. We even met other dog owners and made new friends.

But what I loved the most about our daily walks was the way they brought us closer together as a family. My wife and I got to spend quality time with our kids, and our dogs got to run and play and be loved. It was a small thing, but it made a big difference in our lives.

As the pandemic continues, we're grateful for the daily walks we took around Puddingstone Lake. They gave us a sense of normalcy and a way to stay connected with each other and the world around us. And now, a year later, we have a whole year of memories that we'll cherish forever.

If you're looking for a way to stay active and connected during this challenging time, I highly recommend taking a daily walk with your family and pets. It's a small step that can make a big difference in your life.