Without much difficulty, statistics can be found showing the relationship between pet ownership, happiness and health benefits-such as lowered blood pressure, speedier recovery from illness and a lifting of emotional spirit, in general. As the season is upon us for adopting pets, many look for a ray of brightness beneath the gray skies of winter. And they find their sunshine in the form of a four-legged canine. For those who've finished their research and are prepared for a family pet, there's no better time to add the new member to your family … by adopting or finding the perfect breeder for you. (For the rest of the story, check out the January/February issue, on newsstands now.)

Get out your parka-winter in LAKES Country is no time for curling up on the couch! Our area offers a myriad of outdoor activities near lakeshores and state parks. From ice fishing and tobogganing to bird watching and cold-weather hiking, you can indulge in the glistening beauty of winter and get your blood flowing, too.

If you remember speeding down neighborhood hills on your sled as a kid, then the quarter-mile toboggan track at Pokagon State Park will be a blast from the past.

If your idea of winter fun involves an auger and a pole, you'll find an oasis in LAKES Country. (For the rest of the story, check out the January/February issue, on newsstands now.)

There is a deep longing that takes hold every year about now as LAKES Country readers ponder: When can we put the boat in the water?

The wait seems forever as winter grudgingly retreats. Then, a ray of sunshine peeks through. You can see a reason to hold on. It's a boat show!

One premier event is the 2010 Fort Wayne Boat Show, February 4 - 7 at the Memorial Coliseum Expo Center in Fort Wayne. Northern Indiana LAKES Magazine will be on-hand to greet our lake-loving friends as we all try to encourage spring to hurry up!

First, though, a look at what should be hot stuff on the waterways and some input from a few of the fine dealers around. Plus, some news from Indiana's DNR as they work to ensure a safe boating season for us all in 2010. (For the rest of the story, check out the January/February issue, on newsstands now.)