Ugh. Snow. I know it’s good for the garden, but, after six months of flurries, flakes and frozen sidewalks, this dreary weather is rather soul crushing.

However, feeling sorry for yourself is not on this weekend’s to-do list. Our yards may be blanketed in white, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get out and get some green. Spring is closer than you think, literally.

Go see “Bob” at the Como Park Conservatory
It’s not as big as last year’s bloom at Gustavus Adolphus College, but “Bob” the corpse flower promises to be just as stinky. As of 2007, only 122 of the plants have been known to bloom worldwide. After a quick whiff, you can cleanse your palette in the cool fern room or the beautiful sunken garden.

Pastries and pansies at Patrick’s
Patrick’s Bakery and Cafe is one of the best things about Bachman’s on Lyndale Avenue. Order a handmade brioche, grab a table in the greenhouse, and enjoy the view. Retail therapy is a great way to beat the winter blues. Don’t forget to peruse their great selection of patio pots, pansies and more. You totally deserve a new pair of gardening gloves. Yes, you do.

Journey to another universe, the Nickelodeon Universe
I have a love-hate relationship with Bloomington’s shopping and entertainment behemoth, Mall of America. I’d rather gnaw off my arm than brave the weekend crowds. However, desperate times call for desperate measures. Nickelodeon Universe has some great indoor “gardens.” You don’t need to be a toddler to get down with SpongeBob and some Dippin’ Dots.

Here kitty kitty
Tie one on at the Kitty Kat Klub (You’ll need a drink after a day at MOA, trust me). The place is full of tall ficus trees strung with holiday lights. Curl up in a corner with a cutie and cocktail — It’s almost as good as outdoor patio seating. Almost.

However you spend you weekend, don’t let the weather get you down. There is no need to go crazy and adhere googly eyes on your houseplants. No. No. No. (If the video player doesn’t load, go here.)

This entry was posted on Friday, April 11th, 2008 at 12:00 pm and is filed under Weather woes, Weekend to-dos. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.