Distant Activity

Simit on the go!

During a discussion of #QuarantineLife, my coworker recently asked how a self-professed transit guru like myself is staying sane and active in these times; and I thought I’d share a few of my habits. I’ll start this off by confessing that I’m very lucky and indeed privileged to be in a job where my physical presence isn’t required; even as an ‘outreach’ guy, I just get to shout at you all from here. And while I have always been a #MARTA commuter, my partner recently took a job that takes our single car household down to zero available vehicles during the day, so my errands have all been on foot, bicycle, or delivered to me by well-tipped professionals.

I’m also fortunate to have settled in a particularly connected part of ITP Atlanta, with access to retail and walkable streets and trails that have been a lifesaver on days when my sweet [if manic] dog, Simit, and I both feel the need to escape and just walk until home feels far enough away. Thanks to Simit’s outsized influence on my life, we walk for at least 20 minutes every night, usually taking the long way around the quiet blocks of Edgewood. And of course, I’m diligently counting my steps for points towards the ongoing BuckheadWALKS! challenge. Simit is usually happy to run beside my bike, for longer trips he can be cajoled into his K9 Sport Sack.

Water doggo

On weekends, we’ve recently started loading up our bargain kayaks for aimless paddling excursions. Kayaking has become another lifesaving activity for us, as it’s generally easy to maintain distances but can still be done with friends, provides a change of scenery, and requires only as much exertion as you feel like giving. I’m fond of saying “Kayaking is cycling for your arms.” Simit seems to enjoy going along for the ride as well.

Atlanta is fairly well situated for kayaking spots besides; Lake Lanier and Allatoona are both suitable sites and currently open; but my favorite has become the lake at Stone Mountain – Although the park charges a $20 parking fee, its proximity made the $40 yearly pass a no-brainer, and the relative lack of high-speed boating traffic ensures placid waters, punctuated by the welcome sounds of the carillon bells. Inspired by our partnership with the Chattahoochee River Keepers, my next outing will likely be to paddle the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area as it enters its phased reopening.