Millie and I (see above) just returned from a walk on Menomonee River Parkway. I do my best blog-thinking on these walks and today was an outstanding day for such a venture. Here are just a few of the gems that popped into my head as we walked:

 

Let’s hear it for the weather – clap, clap, clap, clap. Fall is, hands-down, my absolutely favorite season. Today is a spectacular example of why I love this time of year. The weather is cool and crisp, the bugs are gone, the sun is shining brightly and there’s a crunch with every footstep. Bravo Mother Nature.

 

Every time I walk Millie on the parkway, I’m pretty sure I’m violating some county ordinance. I know this because there are a few well-hidden signs that say NO DOGS ALLOWED. I’m guessing this is because of a few crummy dog-walkers who have not picked up after their dogs. You know who you are. Or maybe you don’t because you are one of those elite runners that allows your dog to run behind you unleashed. You’re moving so fast that you don’t know when your dog stops and leaves a souvenir on the pathway. In any case, I think the parkway should be open to well-managed, leashed dogs and their owners. I think we can coexist with the runners, the walkers and the stroller-pushers.

 

Today while walking, I heard a voice behind me say: “Coming up on your left. I have plenty of room. Thank you.” This was a courteous cyclist. It was also shocking to hear. I’m used to bikes whizzing past me with no warning. They can see me, but neither I nor my dog can see or hear them. The dog gets startled when they suddenly appear and then the cyclist gets mad when the dog inadvertently lunges in their path. If you’re riding behind a dog walker or anyone, give notice. Buy a bell. Give a shout out.

 

Maybe it was just a tease, but it sure looked like there were road repairs going on just west of Church Street on the parkway. Could it be that the infamous potholes are actually being fixed? We can dream, can’t we?

 

There’s nothing like a couple of early spring days in the 70s to drive Tosans outside and walking. Like many of my neighbors, I took advantage of the balmy temperatures these past two days to give my dog a little extra exercise. Virtually every sidewalk and parkway path were heavily traveled by walkers, runners, cyclists and, of course, dog owners. The only minor irritation was the dog walker who decided that his two Golden Retrievers could run leash-free along Menomonee River Parkway. They didn’t really bother anyone, but his bold disregard for the law was unwelcome by most people that saw him.

Nevertheless, there was something incredibly liberating about this unexpected weather bonus. As I wound my way up and down streets, I couldn’t help but notice what a great community Wauwatosa is for pedestrians. Abundant sidewalks, interesting homes and friendly faces make every walk a welcome cure for cabin fever.

For the first time in several years, it's a SNOW DAY!! Hunker down? Not me! Give me a blizzard and I can't wait to get out and about. Perhaps it's my all-wheel drive vehicle or maybe it's the thrill of being one of the few silly enough to brave the elements. Nevertheless, my daughter and I headed over to John's Sandwich Shop this morning to revel in the unexpected holiday and enjoy a hearty breakfast along with many other Tosans. The place was jammed and there was a wait for a table. The counter was good enough for the two of us and it was fun to watch the giant smiles on the kids who could hardly wait to break out those dusty sleds and snow tubes. No doubt the sledding hills will be packed today!

As we drove north on Ludington Avenue, it was strange to see a deserted town, except for the occasional snow blowing citizen trying to stay ahead of the accumulation. On this snowy morning, just the fact that we were daring (i.e. stupid) enough to slowly cruise the Tosa streets merited a friendly wave and a smile from a bundled up fellow pushing a Toro.

Upon returning home, I found the real reason for loving snow storms. There is nothing cuter in the falling snow, than an energetic Golden Retriever bounding through the snow with a tennis ball. Don't you agree?

What about you? Do you love or hate the snow? What's your favorite thing to do on a snow day? E-mail me at westsidestoriestosa@yahoo.com and share your winter adventures!