We are soooooo close to surviving another winter on the West End. I personally am really looking forward to spring. Green grass, budding trees, warm breezes and all things growing have a wonderful way of motivating me gently out of hibernation. Everyone is getting anxious for outdoor fun, which for me does not involve snow. Here’s what’s happening at Birch... READ MORE >
We have made it through another year! December weather has been a rough one for everyone. I am so proud of our West End seniors for getting out in this horrible wind and snow to participate. The strength and fortitude of these people who created and grew this part of Cook County are highly commendable. All of the people who... READ MORE >
I guess I do not need to inform anyone that winter is here! The sandals are done for the season. The outdoor chores that were not done will be here in the spring. Now it will be a good time to participate in the upcoming holidays, shoveling and more shoveling. I think the bears have the right idea, hibernating sounds... READ MORE >
Happy Halloween… already! I haven’t given up the sandals yet, any day now I will not have a choice. We are being blessed with the sunshine and beautiful sunrises over the lake. Enjoy these treasures while we can! The last CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) was picked up October 1st at the farm in Finland. Veggies galore, thank you to Round... READ MORE >
The months are slipping in and out as quickly as the big lake brings in her waves and takes them back out to sea. I know I saw sparrows yesterday that seemed to have just gotten here in the spring. I thought to myself, are you really going south so soon? The message is clear, my favorite time of the... READ MORE >
It has been a busy July and August on the West End. As always summer goes by way too fast. July was filled with activity which included the Tofte 4th of July celebration. We hosted the Tofte Trek event which was a big hit. We served breakfast pizza from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. which involved preparing about 100 pizzas... READ MORE >
It seems like I was just saying “It’s almost June” and now it is almost July! This summer is going fast. Let’s make the most of it and join in on the classes, events and programs. We are always looking for volunteers. If anyone has some free time or a skill they would like to share, such as writing, drawing,... READ MORE >
Finally spring has sprung! Green is filling our world as well as a lot of yellow—can’t keep those dandelions from popping up to say hello. The trees are filled with birds, chipmunks and squirrels full of renewed energy. This weekend a curious squirrel ran up to my foot, stopped and stared me right in the eyes as if to say,... READ MORE >
Spring is almost here; the melting snow has made us the most joyous mud and road washouts. We are all getting anxious for the rejuvenation of our souls with longer days, gardens beginning to grow and the birds returning to sing to us all in the morning. Speaking of…our West End snowbirds are beginning to return to the shore to... READ MORE >
We are getting closer to spring every day, even though winter keeps teasing us. Just knowing that soon we can get our feet out of snow boots and hands out of mittens is a blessing. Trying to keep ice on the ice rink for the 6th Annual Boot Hockey Tournament, held on March 4 was quite a challenge. It involved... READ MORE >
