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Not really SAD, but

A lot of people are affected with Seasonal Affective Disorder in Wisconsin.  We have many, many days without sun during the winter months.  This year, we've had a string of days with heavy fog and unseasonably warm temperatures in the 30's and 40's.   Personally, I can't claim that I've ever really felt the effects of SAD, but this year, knowing that we are likely moving west later next year, I've been very impatient and annoyed with Wisconsin weather.   Sun trying to fight through the clouds It hasn't helped that my daily routine involves looking at the weather in Fort Collins and Tucson.  Their weather has been spectacularly sunny and more pleasant this time of year.   So, I haven't been blogging much because not much is going on. I've substituted indoor pickleball for hiking. The trails have been muddy and not much fun. For Christmas, we had my mother, Julia's brother and Allie here.  I went and retrieved my mother from Cedar Rapids a...
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First Day Hike


The end of 2018 and the beginning of 2019 have presented some difficult challenges.  When life gets tough, go for a hike.  A number of state-owned properties held First Day Hikes on January 1st as a way to encourage Wisconsin residents to get outdoors during winter and to enjoy the natural beauty.  We went on one of those hikes last year at Gibraltar Rock.  Maybe a dozen people participated due to extreme cold weather.  This year’s hike featured five inches of fresh snow and temperatures in the balmy 20’s (warm compared to last year).  With our new dog Callie leading the way with snarls towards any potential stranger danger, we tried to arrive early to avoid crowds and succeeded on the first half of the loop.


On the way back, we passed at least 60 people and several dogs, so the narrow trail was a bit more crowded than I like.
I’m not one to complain though.  Our Ice Age Trail is a treasured resource.  As more people discover its beauty, more resources can be allocated towards its completion and management.  When we started the hike, there were three cars in the parking lot.  When we ended the hike, both parking lots was full, and dozens of cars were parked on the side of the  highway.  For people willing to brave the crowds (not me), a huge thermos of hot chocolate and sweet treats were available on top.  Instead, we rushed home for naps in front of the wood stove.                                                



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