let nature be your valentine

I've always been fond of Valentine's Day.  Though it's historically been a romantic holiday, I've always enjoyed crafting valentines for friends and family alike.  To me, the romantic aspect of the holiday is overhyped anyway. 

One of my favorite things to spot when I'm out in nature is hearts.  In fact, a few years back my niece and I ventured out to Scout Lake Park with valentine photos in mind.  We found all kinds of fun, natural elements to use in our photos.

With Valentine's Day coming up, I thought I'd peruse my heart shaped finds, share them with you, and feature the parks I found them in.  Who says Valentine's Day has to include romantic dinners and extravagant gestures?  I think a walk in the park on Valentine's Day with someone whose company you enjoy is a perfect way to spend the day.  It's a perfect day for a solo hike as well.  Take your camera along and keep an eye out for nature's hearts, and craft your own valentine.

Happy Valentine's Day, Friends...

​Kimberly

Falk Park - Oak Creek
Falk Park may be just an off-ramp away from I-94, but this 200-acre park includes enough woodland trails to surround you with trees, birds, wildlflowers, and more.

Woodpeckers call from on high, and, if you listen closely, you may hear a Great Horned Owl as it keeps watch over the habitat.  We discovered it watching us as we walked the trails one winter day last year.

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Lincoln Park - Glendale
Located on Milwaukee's north side, Lincoln Park is 312-acres of multi-use recreation space.  Sports of all kinds are represented here, as well as walking trails along the Milwaukee River, great bird-watching, and connections to the Oak Leaf Trail.

There is also a canoe/kayak launch into the Milwaukee River at 5000 N. Milwaukee River Parkway.

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Scout Lake Park - Greendale
At 64-acres, Scout Lake Park is scenic in all seasons and features walking trails, a fishing pier, reservable picnic areas, and a tot lot/play area.

There's great bird-watching here, and a half-mile looped walking path around the lake.

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Whitnall Park - Franklin
At 626 acres, Whitnall Park features a diverse array of nature and recreation areas, including Wehr Nature Center, Boerner Botanical Gardens, and Whitnall Golf Course.

The Oak Leaf Trail winds through the park, along with plenty of other walking trails. There's great bird-watching in all areas of the park, woodlands, and native gardens.

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