Last weekend didn't have the greatest weather, but I wanted to get outside. This is the last week of school and my oldest child seems surprised that assignments still need to be turned in. Apparently it is not optional to turn in her assignments as she had hoped. So instead of spending the day in the house arguing about her assignments, Greg & I decided to hit the reset button and get outside for a walk.
I have been wanting to explore some of the trails in Milwaukee, but it feels like a mystery. When I'm on Farwell, I see a trail going under a bridge, but I didn't know which trail it was or where to get on it. So many questions.
I thought I'd crack the mystery and just get out and do it. What a novel idea.
We took Capitol to Corner Bakery in Shorewood and parked in the back lot which has an entrance to the Oak Leaf Trail.
We wore layers and needed all of them because the weather was gray and chilly. Like my mood.
As we walked, I started to relax until my kids decided to pick up hiking sticks. Small children and large pointy sticks are not my favorite combination. I was whacked three times and then I vetoed the hiking sticks. I am a mom, not a saint.
Lucy and Mari packed their own binoculars, which were slightly functional. It kept them entertained and Lucy claims she spied a chickadee.
Did I mention, Internet, that we recently got a dog? More on that in a future post. Let's pace ourselves, but I will tell you that her name is Millie and she's furry.
She hardly gets noticed or loved on though. As you can see.
We discovered a little gem right away: the Hubbard Park Lodge. I had never heard of this place, but you can get a Friday night fish fry there and rent it for parties/weddings. Adjacent to the building is a secret beer garden.
There were people eating a picnic lunch (not sure if they brought it in or if they purchased there--further investigation required) and playing bean bags. I'm going to look into this place to see if reservations are required for this as well. It'd be a cool spot to host a summer party, weather permitting.
There are small trails that jut off the main path and we took one that led down to the river. The plantings along the way are maintained by the Urban Ecology Center.
It led down to the bridge and a place to sit for a minute.
We headed back the way we came and took a photo op at the Boat House.
Mari got an owie and I didn't bring bandaids, so a mama kiss would have to do.
I scowl while reading and have passed this trait onto my daughter apparently. Look at how much fun reading is, kids!
And hey--I'd be remiss if I didn't mention The Bow. I know it's pretentious to have a bow in a dog's hair. She got a haircut this week and the groomer put it in. It's tightly wound around some ear hair and I am a little afraid to take it out. But the girls love it. #excuses #dogswithbowsforever
Though the weather wasn't great, there were a lot of people out on the trail. A lot of runners, some dog walkers and bikers. I do need to give a shout out to the guy who circled around us 3 three times on his bike, each time with the creepiest smile on his face.
But maybe I'm being too cynical. Maybe he's just a really happy guy. I just wish he could bring his creepy happiness somewhere else.
Overall, it was a great intro the the Milwaukee trails. We're going to try again on a nicer day and use a different entrance. If you decide you try the trails, pack a water bottle, mosquito spray and bandaids for those inevitable owies. And look out for the creepy/happy guy.
