monkeyandthebug

Our trips back to my hometown of Delafield, Wisconsin are such a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle of Boston.  As my parents (the twins’ Lola & Lolo), brother (Uncle Erik) and best friend (Auntie Jenica) still live there, we travel there frequently.  Particularly since my dad suffered from cancer and strokes 2 years ago, our time together is invaluable.  And no matter what time of year we visit, there is always some activity for the girls.

Playing with Lola

Riley and Lola

The most simple entertainment for Riley and Gemma comes in the form of playing in Lola’s and Lolo’s backyard. (See some pics of them playing in their backyard HERE)  My parents’ home sits on over 1 acre of land.  So we can merely open the doors and let them run wild.  And the wildlife abounds in the neighborhood.  It’s not
uncommon for us to spy a family of white tailed deer, wild turkeys, and bunny rabbits.  While we take advantage of the lovely parks in Boston, we rarely have direct access to this much green space.

Brunch with the fam

The Milwaukee Public Zoo, a quick 20 minute drive from the house, has amassed an amazing collection of animals.  From the polar bear arena to the ape and monkey sanctuary, this zoo is one of the best I have visited in the United States.  It also boasts a large playground, a petting zoo filled with goats (the girls’ favorite area), and a slow moving locomotive that tours the grounds.  This is a must-see on a visit to Southeastern Wisconsin.

Another children’s attraction is the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum.  There are several interactive and educational areas
to explore, such as the toddler play area, the town center, and the art and music theater.  The museum can get quite congested, so I would
recommend scheduling your visit accordingly.

For a cultural fix, the Milwaukee Art Museum is a great stop.  The modern wing, which opened recently, is a beautiful
architectural specimen.  Encasing the wing is the Burke Brise Soleil, a sunscreen with movable wings.  And after a trip to the museum, take
a picnic lunch to the shores of Lake Michigan.  The lake shore is very peaceful; one cannot understand the enormity of this Great Lake until
one sees it up close and personal.

Gemma the tractor driver!

Food is also a big part of traveling to Wisconsin.  This is the dairy state, after all, so the treats are endless.  Brennan’s Market
has an abundant selection of local cheeses, along with fresh produce and baked goods.  My favorite frozen custard stand
is Le Duc’s  in Wales.  My perennial favorite is the turtle sundae, but as Riley is allergic to nuts we now indulge in
classic hot fudge sundaes topped with fresh whipped cream.  Finally, when Dave and I schedule date night, we have dinner at Jake’s
Restaurant.  This steak house has been in business for over 50 years; the quaint, cozy Midwestern feel of the joint nicely accompanies the farm fresh food.  Aside from the steaks, the duck is succulent, and the fried onion strings are to die for!

This is just the tip of the iceberg; I haven’t even touched upon camping in the northern woods, attending the State Fair, going to
Lambeau Field for a Packer’s game, or visiting the farmer’s market in Madison.  There is so much to see and do here and I’m so proud to call Wisconsin home.