Exploring your hometown is something many feel is either beneath them or just doesn’t exist.

I mean, what is there to do where you live? I’ve been here my whole life, and I’ve experienced it all already. I’m not waking up to go and find nothing to do.

That tends to be our mindset, but once you finally get over yourself, you’re going to realize some simple truths.

1. Moving away from where you live for entertainment purposes is just plain dumb. Don’t mix up “stimulation” with “entertainment.” If you become over stimulated, you miss out on the good things you see on a daily basis.
2. Refusing to explore and re-explore your surroundings and then complaining is so overdone. There are a million things to do, and they’re accessible. I promise.
3. You really do live in a pretty cool place with cool things to do. I dare you to prove me wrong.

I had the chance to visit McClain Lodge during a break from my day job, and even though the day was super hot, it was cool to see animals I’ve never seen in person.

I also had the chance to talk to Capital City Kayaks owner Chris Lockhart about his efforts to open up the Pearl river to kayakers, open up kayaking to people who never thought they’d kayak, and purchasing an awesome green bus.