Well, due to a combination of yet more snowy weather and a busy schedule, I haven’t been able to get out and about on the trails until today. To add insult to injury, another large snowstorm is headed our way in a few days ((sigh)) Like many of my Minnesota friends and neighbors, I’m itching for spring to actually arrive…this long, drawn-out winter is starting to get a little trying!
Today was cloudy, but relatively warm (almost 50 degrees), and my husband Mark and I were able to fit in a short wander. This time I chose a trail that offered a little nostalgia and historical education, as well as some quality time in the open air.
My maternal grandfather was born and raised in Mound, Minnesota, where, as it happens, the Andrews Sisters were also born and spent their summers when they were young. My grandfather not only knew the sisters, but would roller-skate with them – I always enjoyed listening to the stories of his youth. For those who aren’t familiar with the Andrews Sisters, I recommend doing an internet search and listening to some of their music. They recorded their songs many decades ago (they are strongly associated with the WWII era and it is considered that they gave
more USO performances than anyone except Bob Hope), but I guarantee you will recognize at least some of their songs! About 10 years ago Mound built a path along the Lake Minnetonka shoreline dedicated to the Andrews Sisters and called it, appropriately enough, The Andrews Sisters Trail.
I believe I mentioned this was just a short stroll, about a mile total, to be exact. But as it follows the lakeshore it was quite lovely. Much of the trail is bordered on the inland side by a series of rain gardens. Some say rain gardens are more trouble than they’re worth, but I couldn’t disagree more. In fact, I’m 
not really sure what folks mean when they say that, as I’ve heard of well-planned perennial gardens that largely look after themselves once established, as Mark’s and mine does. A rain garden is designed to collect water running off roads, driveways, roofs, sidewalks, parking lots, and green spaces that have potentially been treated by chemicals. The water which pools in the rain garden then filters into the soil, effectively breaking down the impurities and pollutants, rather than allowing it to drain directly into our waterways. In my opinion, these gardens are as much of a tribute to the Andrews Sisters as the trail built in their honor, as it helps to maintain the lake their beloved childhood home is nestled on.
Yes, this was only a short walk, but we really did enjoy learning more about the Andrews Sisters, exploring the trail dedicated to them, and we enjoyed the walk itself…for the most part. As I said before, this seemingly never-ending
winter is putting a lot of people on edge around here. Although, in actuality, it’s not just people being impacted. I think these Canada Geese are a little confused, wondering where all the open water is…
At least they have a Private Dock…