There are countless small districts like this scattered around the state, each with its own charm. A few years ago, whether it was by fate or pure chance, my family was fortunate enough to find ourselves in one of these curious little towns, Stoughton, WI. Stoughton has a unique culturalContinue Reading

Top Outdoor Dog-Friendly Winter Spots Perrot State Park – Trempealeau, WINestled along the Mississippi, this park transforms into a winter wonderland. Snowshoe or ski through serene trails, surrounded by breathtaking views. Pro tip: Practice “heel” commands on skis—it’s safer than letting your pup take the lead on icy slopes! Devil’sContinue Reading

With reasonably priced admission and camping fees, and activities that engage all age groups, It’s a great destination for kids and families, and an accessible adventure for anyone. The cave is open for visitors most of the year, so you can plan your adventure regardless of the season. Eagle CaveContinue Reading

Itasca State Park Spend a winter weekend exploring Itasca State Park. Visit the headwaters of the Mississippi River State Water Trail. Check the park’s events calendar to schedule your visit around a candlelight event, guided walk or naturalist program. Check the latest snow depth and trail conditions report online. In winter, the south entrance isContinue Reading

Feeding livestock involves ensuring enough stored forage like hay and silage are available throughout the winter.  Farmers also supplement with grains to ensure adequate nutrition as this is crucial for animal health and milk production. Farmers must ensure access to water, often using heated water troughs to prevent freezing. CropsContinue Reading

From country western to old-time polka, the dance floor beckons couples and groups to sway and twirl to the rhythm of the music. Local bands often take center stage, showcasing their talent and engaging the audience with lively performances. Each bring their own flair and energy, ensuring each night isContinue Reading

It is located just west of the Howard County Courthouse, is 100 feet long and 47 feet wide. The stage is 47 feet wide and 20 feet deep. The proscenium arch is 28 feet wide and 20 feet high. An orchestra pit fronts the stage, and there are two wingContinue Reading

Have you read any good books?To be honest- I mostly read cookbooks. My favorites lately are:Company, The Radically Casual Art of Cooking for Others by Amy Thielen.Our Kindred Home by my friend Alyson Morgan.My Paris Kitchen by David Lebovitz.Fika by Anna Brones & Johanna Kindvall.The New Rules of Cheese byContinue Reading

If you could change the world, what would you change?The amount of carbon we are putting in the atmosphere. What do you think is the meaning of life?To champion others. Do you prefer working alone, or do you like working with others?I like solitary work, but love working with professionals.Continue Reading

By Erica Howe –  The Driftless Area is renowned for beautiful natural spots, both on and off the beaten track. But how to find the waterfalls, groves, rock formations, and prairie spaces that aren’t on any tourist maps? Well, there is an activity that can help with that. Geocaching isContinue Reading

On a recent visit with friends, one friend kept remarking “I have never seen this before.” Yet, he lived only a few miles away.   My first experience was seeing it on T.V., on an unusual show called Beyond Bizarre. The most recent popular show to feature it is TheContinue Reading

Where art and nature meet While Caponi Art Park may have begun as the work of one person, in 1992 it was incorporated as a nonprofit to preserve and enhance Tony’s vision for generations to come.  Performances by the region’s top artists began in 1996. Over the years the ParkContinue Reading

Whether you’re fishing in the river, golfing with friends, biking the trail, or on a ropes course 30 feet in the air, there’s something for everyone. In Lanesboro nature here isn’t just scenery or a canvas for outdoor recreation; it’s a teacher, reminding us of life’s rhythms. For those seekingContinue Reading

Earlier that afternoon my little guy and I had stopped at one of our favorite places, Rumble Seats, to grab a sweet treat to celebrate the end of school.  Rumble Seats brings back nostalgic memories from my childhood. The place has a drive up, walk up and indoor seating area.Continue Reading

Houska Dog Park: A 5-acre, fenced dog park on the east side of Houska Park. Amenities include drinking fountains, restrooms, adequate parking, and doggie bag dispensers. Hixon Forest: offers nearly ten miles of hiking and mountain biking trails through the wooded bluffs. Each trail within the park is dog-friendly. DogContinue Reading

  This same wonder washed over me as an adult as I stepped through those doors. It was like seeing it through the eyes of a kid again the moment I was among the stalactites and stalagmites.  We wandered down the paved path, careful not to step off the trailContinue Reading

Do you have a life philosophy that you live by?It’s simple. Love. What do you like most about yourself?That I can be myself and not “worry” about what others are thinking. If you could change the world, what would you change?Wow. Big question. More women to be in positions toContinue Reading

Have you read any good books?Yes. I have read many. Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier is an all-time fave. The Sociopath Next Door by Martha Stout (and her sequel Outsmarting the Sociopath Next Door), Brood by Jacki Polzin, Fox and I by Catherine Raven, and Don’t Shoot the Dog byContinue Reading