Some families choose bright lights and bustling schedules at Christmas. This year, we chose something quieter. No waterparks. No venturing off to buy batteries or take advantage of sales. No packed schedules. We’re trading dependable Wi-Fi, a dishwasher, and extra…
I was excited when the mockup for my latest picture book arrived in the mail. The cover of When an Octopus Crashes Your Party was colorful, imaginative, and fun. I eagerly flipped through the pages, scanning for typos or layout…
As the days grow shorter and the sun slips away before many of us have even thought about starting supper, I find myself wanting to do what any sensible woodland creature would do: crawl into a warm den, curl my…
Josie the Cockapoo’s worn pads click across the kitchen floor. Fifteen years old. My husband and I display a photo of her as a puppy—see photo above—and often comment on how quickly the years have gone. Bare patches show where…
Nestled in the lovely Baraboo Hills sits Jane’s Journey Home for Dogs—or simply “the farm,” as many affectionately call it. I spoke with Rachel, who has worked there since the non-profit was founded in 2021 and brings over twenty years…
Step inside Marjorie Cutting’s Baraboo art studio, and you’re greeted by a twelve-foot fabric panel of the Archangel Rafael. His hand-sewn wings drape gracefully down, and a blue fish with lace-trimmed fins rests at his feet. In many traditions, Rafael…
The moment “Dean Martin” strolled on stage at the Legacy Theatre in Lake Delton—drink in hand, cigarette dangling, voice smooth as silk—I was back in my teens. I could see myself standing in our living room, wearing a colorfully patterned…
Some places don’t need ghosts to feel haunted. I recently visited Lake Delton’s Dawn Manor Speakeasy. Walking up to the entrance, diners are greeted by historic gargoyle-like stone statues. These weathered guardians once graced Dawn Manor when Helen Raab owned…
“I wish someone had told me…” Those five little words can open the floodgates to wisdom, reflection, and humor. When I asked fellow Wisconsinites to finish the phrase, their answers reminded me that life itself is a classroom—one where the…
I’ve always loved getting up early, when the world seems to hold endless possibilities and before responsibilities tug at me. One of my daughters does, too. And a dear friend of mine does as well. I enjoy writing; my daughter…