As I stroll down a peaceful Wisconsin Dells road framed by giant pine trees, a high-pitched squeal draws my eyes upward. Can you guess which bird flies above me? It has a seven-foot wingspan and is heading toward the river…
I am cruising from Portage to Wisconsin Dells along the smooth stretch on Highway 16 when a police car that was half-hidden alongside the road pulls out and follows me. Maybe you know the feeling of having your stomach drop…
I enjoy skimming the wrap-ups of the year and thought it would be fun to poll my Wisconsin friends and family about 2023. I asked for “best discoveries” and got a wide range, including book recommendations and goal setting. I…
I met Shelley Mordini in her haunted office. Details about the building formerly owned by the Ringling brothers appear at the end of this column. I was in a holiday mood and excited to hear Shelley tell the story I…
I recently read a book where the main character, Patrick, who ran a donkey sanctuary, had to ask a vet to give a suffering donkey a lethal injection. Afterward, the donkey’s bonded buddy was overcome with grief. He had grazed…
When I look at the calendar and count the days until Christmas, I get anxious. Maybe this happens to you, too. As Christmas approaches, here are some tips to stress less and enjoy more. This December devote time for yourself.…
Most Thanksgiving hosts prepare for the big day by grocery shopping, baking, and cleaning, but I’ve dusted off heirlooms and “treasures” for a family auction. Mind you, no money is exchanged and if two people show interest in something, we…
I hurriedly scoop another armful of dead flower stalks and drop them into the wheelbarrow. There’s a chill in the air. The ka-runk, ka-runk of the geese flying overhead call a warning. It’s coming; it’s coming. A fat critter uses…
National Make a Difference Day, observed every fall, presents an opportunity for people to contribute their efforts toward creating a brighter future. Beginning in September, I began posting “small kind gestures” that I found in the community. My first Facebook…
While on the road to Portage, I listened to a book on tape and was dreamily transported to another world. I took a sip of my travel mug of coffee. Yuck! Dishwashing soap. I recalled this morning when my husband…