Finally Spring!

…And we're getting six to eight inches of snow tomorrow. Yuck!

Clearly, my exclamation of delight over springtime was a little premature. But what do you expect? After a long and taxing winter, I think all of us are anxious for a change, not to mention sunnier days – I know it will help me get out of this rut and maybe get some color back into my pasty skin.

As expected, warmer temperatures will eventually come to southeastern Wisconsin and regardless of the amount of snow that will pileup tomorrow, we can bet our boots that it’ll quickly melt – there’s always a silver lining, you see.

Even though the last four months were brutal with endless snow and bitter cold temperatures, I’m glad I took advantage of the winter wonderland by cross-country skiing and tobogganing instead of hiding underneath my covers.

Looking back all the way to December, I had a fabulous first-time visit to the u-cut tree farm and a blast celebrating Christmas and New Years. I also got to check out Body Worlds, take part in my first non-job interview, and test my swing dancing abilities. Now that I think of it, it was a great winter, probably the best I’ve experience in years!

By now I think it’s safe to say that we're all ready to move on, though. With the spring thaw, the vivacious sounds of Milwaukeeans emerging from hibernation will resonate off the buildings and echo down the streets. It’s no surprise considering Milwaukee offers locals and visitors a plethora of fun things to do, especially as the weather heats up.

One of my favorite things about living downtown is how the city comes to life in full force on beautiful days. Every picnic table, grassy patch, or bar patio becomes occupied by sunglasses or Brewers cap-wearing locals ready to bask in the city and Mother Nature’s splendor.

I certainly plan to take advantage of the spring temperatures as soon as they arrive and play in the city as often as I can. Hiking through Lake Park, biking on the Oak Leaf Trail, window shopping along Brady Street or picnicking in Veteran’s Park are just some of my beloved springtime activities, that is, as long as I’m able to keep my allergies at bay.

Besides relaxing in the sun, I’m hoping to get my body toned for swimsuit season, which will creep up on us in no time. I’m looking to take dance lessons through Milwaukee Recreation – what do you think, Argentinean Tango or Salsa lessons? Or perhaps I should finally commit to a three-month jazz/modern class at Danceworks to get back to my roots as a dancer. Also, sand volleyball at The Tracks Tavern begins again in April. As reigning champions, I’m thrilled to play on two competitive teams this season!

Beyond burning calories, I’ll be participating in some activities at the Urban Ecology Center and will hopefully sign-up for summer sailing lessons and skydiving. I’m also going to finally take a trip to Discovery World and the William F. Eisner Museum of Advertising and Design, along with the new Sensory Overload exhibit at the Milwaukee Art Museum.

Most of all, I’m keyed up for baseball season! My tickets already came in the mail, so I’m eager to tailgate and root for the home team. On a side note, I’m glad that Bill Hall moved infield. Last season was rough for him, but I think this change will instill the confidence he had before. (Billy Boy is my favorite Brewer. I don't care what you say.)

But, before Hall and the rest of the Brewers hit the field, I’m hoping to make it to an Admirals or Bonecrushers game – I’m not even going to discuss the Bucks though. Did you see Tuesday night’s abomination against the Heat? Ugh! Despite another disappointing NBA season, I have enough sports events to keep me thoroughly entertained until I’m completely enthralled with baseball once again.

As you can see I have a laundry list of things to do and I'm raring to go and delighted to share my adventures with all of you. There’s plenty to look forward to – blooming flowers, warmer days – so get out and enjoy the new season and the prospect of a fresh beginning.

Maybe I’ll see you around the city!

Comments

[wfbdoglover]

I hope to see you around on the Oak Leaf Trail! This is one of my favorite and new discovery. While you are checking out the Urban Ecology Center - may I suggest renting their Tandum? It is included in your memebership and a hoot to bike along with a friend. My son and I enjoyed it last summer. It was our method of transportation to one of their summer camps.

[Karen]

Tandem bikes are FABULOUS!

I'm really excited to get involved with the Urban Ecology Center too. Maybe I'll run into you sometime. Otherwise, I'm always taking the Oak Leaf Trail to various places.

Last spring I took the OLT from the East Side out to New Berlin. That was a really fun, but long bike ride; however, it doesn't compare to the 50-mile haul I took while participating in the Miller Lite Ride for the Arts last summer...

I digress. (I'm in a chatty mood)

I'm definitely going to take your suggestion about renting the bikes. Eric's bike was stolen last fall, so a tandem bicycle will be a great way for us to still hit the paths together. :)

Thanks!

[wfbdoglover]

So sorry to hear about Eric's bike! May I suggest the City of Milwaukee's Auction website...

http://www.city.milwaukee.gov/Auction340.htm

There is nothing going on right this minute, but I did get a bike for my son a couple years back for $40.00's. It is a "ride to school" we don't care if it is stolen bike and has lasted us 3 years. It is the motorcycle style - but before those fancy ones came out.

Otherwise, like you said - the EUC is a really good option and right off the OLT!

Have a very Happy Easter!

[wfbdoglover]

I forgot to mention, another good place to look for things are auctions. There is one every Wednesday at Serbhall.

They have a variety of items. I have gotten some very nice things and didn't win a moped - went to high in price -- but do keep looking.

Keep an eye out at Betthausers.com. You never know, you may find a bike of some sort and get a really good price on it too!

I know their web page isn't updated, but I called the owner and her web provider changed service and they haven't quite figured out the problem yet. Should be back up to being updated soon!

[Karen]

Thanks for the tips! I really appreciate it. I'll let Eric know and I'm sure he'll be grateful. :)

[wfbdoglover]

You are welcome!

[worldcupfever]

It could be worse. You could have to watch the Bulls instead of the Bucks. yeesh.

[Karen]

Yeesh is right!

I totally sympathize. But at least you can hold onto the fact that once upon a time the Bulls were six-time World Champions! All Milwaukee has is 1971 when the Bucks finished 66-16 (the most wins in franchise history), and then steamrolled through the playoffs to win the NBA Championship that April. At least we have one Championship title under our belt... I guess.

Oh the good ol' days...*sigh*