This week, as the kids received long-awaited classroom assignments and bus drivers practiced their routes through our neighborhood, all I could think was: Hold on a minute, wasn’t summer just getting started? Like the cliffhanger episodes of your favorite Netflix series, the big highlights of our summer all seemed to...
On Not Questioning Duck Wisdom
Spring has finally sprung in Wisconsin (sighs of relief all around)! This past weekend, as the kids were playing outside, my oldest daughter made a surprising discovery. Next to our garage, bordered on two sides by the brick walls of our house, was a fluffy nest made of mulch...
Bees, Bucks, and Mindfulness
November has ushered in unseasonably chilly temperatures, prompting me to retire some of our outdoor plants sooner than expected. Yesterday, I was surprised to see a solitary bumblebee grazing on the few flowers that are still hanging on for dear life on our porch. I think that, like me,...
Is Summer Really Ending?
It’s hard to believe, but school starts this week. On the surface, I think we’re ready. Pencils and glue sticks are packed, teacher and bus assignments are confirmed, and both of my kids are proudly sporting new haircuts. The anticipation of a fresh school year feels bittersweet. This summer,...
A Spring-Ish Day in January
When it comes to Wisconsin winters, any temperature over 40 degrees can almost feel tropical. This weekend, we took advantage of the warm weather and made the drive to Kohler-Andrae State Park. Located in Sheboygan, the park features miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, nature trails, and some really cool dune...