Sandwiched between a visit with our kids in Chicago and a work trip in Milwaukee, we squeezed in a day of enjoying rural Lake Michigan. After walking the granddogs to the local bakery for breakfast and a leisurely walk, we loaded up the car and headed North.

The day was sunny, warm and beautiful. After meandering through the countryside, we stopped in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Their park afforded a lovely stroll along the lake front. I must admit that I am always amazed at the size of the lake. It feels more like being at the sea than a lake. The park had statues and lighthouse views along the waterfront.

After getting our fill of the fresh clean air, we wandered over to the free museum. I was pleasantly surprised by the collections of dinosaurs, and native artifacts. The galleries were small but well done. We had fun learning about the large digs in nearby fields and the continuing efforts of excavation.

Sometimes, it is worth it to drive the backroads through farms and small towns. Life is peaceful and slower paced here. There will be time for Chicago’s hustle and Milwaukee’s bustle. Today I just want to drive with my windows down and smell the grain fields. I want to look at endless blues and watch the colorful sails of boats. I want to visit with the volunteer who proudly greets visitors. I want a gas station snack stop and good music on the radio. Rural road trips are often aimless guilty pleasures.