Entertain yourself

In the hopes that the mercury soon rises to an enjoyable temperature and with the suspicion that no one really wants to spend a lot of dough, SE Live put together a quick list of five things to do when you're broke:

Get out

Run, walk, bike or blade around La Croix Trail. The four miles of paved path winds through Cape Girardeau, following La Croix Creek and taking the runner/walker/biker/blader under roads and through parks.

Lift your spirits with pretty pictures

Cape Girardeau has no less than seven art galleries. The art may vary drastically in medium, theme and skill, but they all have one thing in common: no admission fees. Friday happens to be the first of the month, and galleries will stay open late to allow people more time to enjoy the art and in most cases, meet the artists.

AARON EISEHAUER ~ aeisenhauer@semissourian.comA bicyclist emerges from under the Hopper Road bridge on the Cape Lacroix Recreation Trail on Monday, October 1, 2007.

Have a ball

The Capahas and Southeast Missouri State University baseball seasons are warming up. Grab a blanket to wrap up in or sprawl out on and cheer for the home team. The two teams play in Capaha Park. For times and opposing teams, check the Sports section of the Southeast Missourian.

Tap the trail

Trail of Tears State Park has hiking and biking trails, some of the best views of the Mississippi River, a free museum with history and zoology and Lake Boutin for swimming and such.

Park it

Aaron Eisenhauer ~ aeisenhauer@semissourian.comShafts of light hit the Peewah Trail that winds through the Indian Creek Wild Area at Trail of Tears State Park. The 1,300-acre area has been protect since 1964 when the Federal Wilderness Act was signed.

Arena Park has sand volleyball pits for anyone's enjoyment. Grab some friends and pretend you can afford a beach vacation.