Greetings, Coffee Lover!

So two weeks after the worst snow storm in decades, Mother Nature smiles upon us, and we jump into the 70s and 80s! This, of course, makes the dandelions pop up (early), gets the tulips up (halfway), and begins the cherry blossoms (usually around May 8th). With the return to more normal temperatures in the 40s, all that sudden growth is on hold. One tulip at home is almost about to open (it’s closest to the front door).

We talk about the weather here daily, and it’s not for lack of other things to discuss. It just has such an influence in our lives. And when you have no hair, it is essential for selecting the day’s hat! Beyond that, it impacts our recreational choices, and you know that all of us who visit and live about the Sleeping Bear Dunes are very outdoor oriented. It may be because of this that Leelanau County was deemed the third healthiest county IN THE COUNTRY. I’d say that’s a pretty good thing! Coffee is most American’s largest source of antioxidants each day, so those folks who join us for coffee after a workout are really in good shape.

Of course getting an accurate forecast is essential for an enjoyable outing, and Leelanau Coffee Roasting has its own weather station. Now that it has been online for four years, Weather Underground takes our historical data, current readings, and the forecast out of Gaylord, and adjusts it for our climate. And lately it has been spot-on. Be sure to try it when you are in the area.

Biking is one of my outdoor activities, and I just picked up my bike from The Cyclery, a new-ish business in the newly-dubbed “Recreational District,” the latest addition to the Crystal River Outfitters empire. They performed a phenomenal tune up and I’m all set to ride. There are a number of new businesses and changes afoot for the summer, and I’ll hold you in suspense on the others until next month, when they are all open.

The other day we were treated to a very special micro-brew from Grand Haven’s Odd Side Ales called “Mayan Mocha Stout.” Why did they bring this special beer for us to taste? Because it’s made with our Dutch Bavarian Chocolate. It was very good, but the hint of jalapeño pepper gave John and me a touch of heartburn (we just don’t do the hot, spicy foods anymore). Randy, Brian, and Steve liked it, and Brenda kind of scrunched up her face.

Have a great April, and let’s see if the trees leaf out ahead of their usual mid-May time frame. If they do, I’ll have a lot more miles on my bike!