AeroGarden Tomato Project – Tiny Tim & San Marzano

AeroGarden Tomatoes: Tiny Tim + San Marzano (My Indoor-to-Outdoor Grow) This year’s AeroGarden tomato adventure kicked off on March 22nd, with both Tiny Tim and San Marzano seeds getting their start in the setup—two different yet equally exciting varieties that promised a mix of indoor charm and outdoor potential. And if you’ve ever dealt with … Read more

Whispers of Change: Embracing Autumn’s Arrival in the Midwest

There’s something truly magical about those late summer days in the Midwest when the air begins to crisp just a bit, and the world around us starts its gentle dance toward autumn. The way the golden light filtered through the trees, and the sky filled with flocks of birds like living poetry in motion.

It’s a time of transition, where birds bid farewell to their summer homes, animals tuck away their winter stores, and insects quietly fade into the background. I invite you to step outside, breathe in the changing breeze, and let nature’s rhythm remind you of life’s beautiful cycles. In this post, we’ll explore the migrating birds, industrious animals, fading insects, and vibrant wildflowers of August and September, all while sharing tips to enjoy it safely. Let’s wander together!

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Exploring Door County Wisconsin: From Solace to Adventure

Door County, Wisconsin, is a picturesque vacation destination known for its charming small towns, scenic landscapes, lighthouses, and abundance of outdoor activities. Situated on a peninsula jutting out into Lake Michigan, Door County offers two distinct sides, divided by two main highways: Highway 42 and Highway 57. Each side has its unique attractions and experiences to offer visitors. Let’s explore both sides to help you plan your perfect Door County getaway.

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Savoring Summer: Door County Cherries and My Homemade Cherry Bounce Recipe

As the golden hues of sunset paint the sky on this humid July evening and the crickets begin their nightly chorus, I’m drawn back to the simple, heartfelt traditions that tie us to the rhythms of nature and family.

Cherry picking started alongside my great-grandfather, Herbie, who taught me the joy of harvesting these ruby gems under the warm Wisconsin sun. We spent countless summers together, where every season brought new adventures—from spring blooms to autumn crispness. In July, we’d focus on the cherries, with Grandpa Herbie’s punch card in hand for each pail we picked at the local orchard, earning a modest reward that made the day feel like a grand achievement. Those memories linger like the sweet scent of ripe fruit, inspiring me to preserve that essence in something special: homemade Cherry Bounce. It’s a straightforward recipe, passed down through simple kitchen wisdom, that captures summer in a jar and brings it out for cozy gatherings later in the year.

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Uncovering the Magic of Plantain Weed: A Backyard Treasure

Hey there, nature lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to share a little story about a humble, often overlooked plant that’s been a quiet hero in my life—plantain weed. Not to be confused with the banana-like fruit, this little green gem is a common backyard “weed” with a surprising amount of charm and usefulness. So, grab a cozy cup of tea, and let’s wander into the world of plantain together.

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A Complete Guide to Foraging Common Elderberry: What You Need To Know

Foraging for common elderberry (Sambucus nigra), also known as black elderberry, is a rewarding way to connect with nature and enjoy its edible bounty. Elderberries and their flowers are prized for culinary uses like syrups, jams, teas, and wines, but foraging requires careful identification and preparation to ensure safety. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about foraging common elderberry, including identification tips, harvesting techniques, safety precautions, and practical uses. Whether you’re a seasoned forager or a beginner, this post will help you confidently find and use elderberries.

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A Chilly Sunday in Oshkosh: Quirky Finds and Sweet Delights

Oshkosh, WI, offers an easygoing charm ideal for a day trip. Here, you can uncover simple joys without straying too far from home. On a recent outing, we met up with my daughter and her fiancé, and we spent the day exploring spots that highlight the town’s approachable vibe—enjoying a good meal, discovering unique finds, and savoring sweets. It’s all about creating memorable moments together.

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Poison Ivy in Wisconsin: How to Spot and Avoid It

Poison Ivy in Wisconsin: How to Spot and Avoid It Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is a common hazard for foragers, hikers, and gardeners in Wisconsin. Its urushiol oil can cause itchy rashes, turning outdoor adventures into a nightmare. In this guide, I’ll break down how to identify the two types of poison ivy in Wisconsin, … Read more

The American Robin: Wisconsin’s Beloved Songbird

As the snow melts away and the days grow longer, Wisconsin residents eagerly await the cheerful arrival of one of nature’s most iconic heralds of spring: the American Robin: Wisconsin’s beloved songbird (Turdus migratorius). With its bright red breast and melodious song, the American Robin is a beloved symbol of the changing seasons and a familiar sight in gardens, parks, and suburban landscapes across the state.

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February Is the Border Between Winter and Spring

We are halfway through the shortest month on the calendar and February Is the border between winter and spring. At this point, we know that wildflowers and fellow winged ones will be arriving shortly. Eastern Pheobe We have plenty of wildlife coming and going this month. The Eastern Pheobes have returned, I hear them off … Read more

Covered Bridges Of Ashtabula County, Ohio

Covered Bridges Of Ashtabula County, Ohio Ashtabula County, located in northeastern Ohio, is known for its 14 picturesque covered bridges. These charming structures are scattered throughout the county and offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s history and natural beauty. Here are a few covered bridges in Ashtabula, Ohio, that we saw on our October … Read more

Elderberry Syrup Recipe and Jar Labels

The cold of winter has set in and there has already been plenty of nasty bugs floating around. I’ve seemed to have found a viral sinus infection bug that I can’t seem to kick. It was time to stop procrastinating and mix up a batch of elderberry syrup. I have included the elderberry syrup recipe and jar labels that I used to create one of nature’s immunity boosters.

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Lakenenland Sculpture Park

Lakenenland Sculpture Park is the brainchild, and artist welding visions of Tom Lakenenland and features over 100 sculptures with additional sculptures added yearly. You can walk through the property year-round, but driving the park is seasonal. The story about how the sculpture park came about is a rather interesting one. One man’s journey to better … Read more

Black-capped Chickadee

The black-capped chickadee might be one of the most recognized birds next to the Red Cardinals, Blue Jays, and Robins. The fluffy little Chickadee comes freely about dwellings even in towns and cities.

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DIY Lavender Fabric and Linen Spray

Lavender is a scent that reminds me of summer. If you grow lavender in your flower garden and sit outside, that heavenly scent will drift in and out of your seating area. I find the scent of lavender to be calming, and there is scientific evidence to back that claim up, which is why I make up a batch of my DIY lavender fabric and linen spray and use it often.

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Cozy Up with My Easy Stuffed Green Pepper Soup: A Summer Garden Delight for Any Day

There’s something truly magical about a steaming bowl of soup that wraps you in warmth, no matter the season. Picture this: it’s a bustling summer afternoon in July, with the sun high in the sky and my garden bursting with vibrant green peppers swaying in the breeze. But even on those unexpected rainy days that sneak up on us, nothing beats stirring up a pot of Stuffed Green Pepper Soup.

It’s like a hug in a bowl—simple, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s become a family favorite because it’s as easy as fry, chop, measure, dump, and simmer. Plus, whether you’re plucking peppers straight from your garden or grabbing them from the store, this recipe works wonders. Let me walk you through it, step by step, with a few personal twists from my own kitchen adventures.

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Harvesting Sunshine: My Journey with Calendula Oil

There’s something magical about a summer morning when the garden wakes up with dew-kissed petals and a gentle hum of bees. On days like this one in late July, I step outside with a mug of tea in hand, drawn to the bright orange blooms of Calendula officinalis nodding in the breeze.

It’s a plant that has woven itself into my own story of simple kitchen experiments and natural remedies, turning ordinary olive oil into a golden elixir. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, let’s explore how to make Calendula oil, straight from my sunny windowsill to yours..

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9 Woodpeckers of Wisconsin (With Photos & ID Guide)

There are 9 types of woodpeckers regularly found in Wisconsin. From the large Pileated Woodpecker to the small Downy Woodpecker, this guide will help you identify each species by size, markings, habitat, and seasonal behavior. In This Guide 9 Woodpeckers of Wisconsin 1.) Northern Flicker Flicker’s appearance differs by region that they are from (Eastern … Read more

Eastern Gray Squirrel: Nature’s Acrobatic Neighbors

There’s something magical about spotting an Eastern Gray Squirrel darting through the trees on a quiet summer morning, its bushy tail waving like a flag in the breeze.

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Collecting and Planting Milkweed Seed

Collecting and Growing Milkweed Seed for Monarchs

Collecting and Planting Milkweed Seed

Each female monarch butterfly lays one egg on an individual milkweed plant, depositing up to 100 eggs daily.  The only food source for the caterpillar is milkweed plants. For that reason, it is important to have a healthy milkweed population. 

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Fall’s Last Hurrah: Fields Of Sandhill Cranes Feasting in Wisconsin’s Golden Fields

As the crisp October air swirls with the scent of fallen leaves and harvest bonfires, there’s no better time to witness one of nature’s most enchanting spectacles right here in Wisconsin. I’m sitting by my window, watching the trees don their fiery reds and golds, and it reminds me why I adore this season—it’s a vibrant celebration of life’s cycles, with the sandhill cranes as the stars of the show. These majestic birds, with their elegant stature and soul-stirring calls, gather by the thousands in our farm fields, feasting on the remnants of the harvest. It’s fall’s grand finale, a moment that feels both bittersweet and exhilarating, and I’ve made it a tradition to venture out and soak it all in. Let me share this autumn adventure with you, drawing from my own explorations, and offer some tips to make your experience just as memorable.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the magic of the cranes’ migration, my personal observations from recent outings, and practical advice for joining in safely. Whether you’re a lifelong Wisconsinite or a visitor chasing fall’s wonders, this is more than just a seasonal event—it’s a heartfelt connection to the wild beauty around us.

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How to Get Hummingbirds To Nest by You

How to Get Hummingbirds to Nest by You - If you would like to see more hummingbirds around your yard you need to provide two sources, food and nesting materials.

How to Get Hummingbirds to Nest by You. If you would like more hummingbirds around your yard, you need to provide two sources: food and nesting materials.

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Nurturing Nature’s Allies: Exploring 12 Milkweed Plants in Wisconsin

 I often wander through wild prairies and meadows, marveling at the Milkweed patches that thrive in their untamed splendor. These unassuming plants are more than just lifelines for Monarch butterflies; they’re bustling ecosystems in their own right, supporting a variety of insects and adding a touch of wild beauty to the landscape.

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6 Ways to Keep Ants Out of Hummingbird Feeders

Keep Ants Out of Hummingbird Feeder

6 Ways To Keep Ants Out Of Hummingbird Feeders

Ants are attracted to sugar and sweetness and since hummingbird feeders are made up of sugar water, they, of course, are going to go straight for the mixture.  Here are 6 ways to keep ants out of your hummingbird feeders.

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Growing Weeks Needed For Fall Crops

Fall Planting Guide How Many Weeks are Need to Grow

Growing Weeks Needed for Fall Crops

Wondering how many growing weeks are needed for a certain fall crop?  I’ve made  a simple guide to give you a clear idea.  You will want to bookmark or save this guide for your mid summer plantings.

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Hiking Crevice Rock

Hiking Crevice Rock

The first part of this hike is a moderate 1.4-mile trail that offers beautiful views of the stone cliffs and excellent views of Sugar Creek in Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, Indiana.

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Storing Tuberous Begonia for Winter

Storing Tuberous Begonia for Winter

Storing Tuberous Begonia for Winter

Did you believe you had to throw out your beautiful plants at the end of each season? Nope. Don’t!  I’ll show you how easy storing tuberous begonia for winter really is.

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Our Baltimore Orioles are Back

All About the Baltimore Oriole

Our Baltimore Orioles are Back

Our Baltimore Orioles are back in Wisconsin. The orioles migrate back for breeding purposes. Lately, I have seen the wonderful mating courtship between the male and female in the treetops.

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Exploring Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin: A Perfect Blend of Adventure, History, and Flavor

Exploring Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin: A Perfect Blend of Adventure, History, and Flavor

Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan and boasting a rich maritime history, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, offers visitors an enticing mix of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. Let’s dive into the top attractions and experiences that Sturgeon Bay has to offer.

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How to Tell Male and Female Monarch Apart

How to Tell the Male and Female Monarch Apart

Ever wonder how to tell male and female Monarch apart? Maybe, the thought never crossed your mind. Well, to capture the lifecycle of the Monarch you would need to know your male from your female. How to Tell Male and Female Monarch Apart Distinguishing between male and female Monarch butterflies can be challenging, but there … Read more

Storing Dahlias Over Winter

Storing Dahlias Over Winter


Many types of dahlias do not survive the snowy cold winters here. We have to lift them out of the dirt or purchase new ones come spring. I wrote up a quick guide to digging up and storing dahlias over winter.

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Whitefish Dunes State Park

Whitefish Dunes State Park Whitefish Dunes State Park is an 863-acre park in Door County, Wisconsin that has beautiful hiking trails a Lake Michigan beach, and the highest sand dunes in Wisconsin. General Info General: State Park has the highest sand dune beach in Wisconsin. Enjoy hiking, gorgeous views of Lake Michigan, and traversing the wooden … Read more

Shades of Serenity: 20 Blue Mixed Media Printable Papers for Junk Journals & Creative Projects

Oh, hello there, dear friends! Picture this: it’s a balmy summer evening in late July, the sun dipping low over a tranquil forest stream, painting everything in soft shades of blue. That’s the exact feeling that inspired this latest digital creation—the Shades of Serenity collection. As someone who loves wandering woodlands and turning simple ideas … Read more

Alice In Wonderland Junk Journal Printable Cards

Hello! I hope you are enjoying the summer weather and getting a chance to spend time with family and friends. Today, I wanted to share a project I have been working on, these adorable Alice In Wonderland junk journal printable cards. What Can The Alice Printable Cards Be Used For? The cards were created to … Read more

Ripples of Reclaimed Beauty Watercolor

A digital artwork that seamlessly blends the rustic allure of scrap lumber ends with vibrant watercolor hues. This Ripples of Reclaimed Beauty Watercolor design captures the essence of nature’s textures and colors, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. Ripples of Reclaimed Beauty Watercolor Description: At first glance, you’re drawn to the intricate details of weathered wood … Read more

April Wildlife Parenthood


As April dawns upon the Wisconsin landscapes, it brings the magic of new life. In this blog post, we dive into the fascinating world of wildlife parenthood, focusing on some iconic animals that give birth and care for their young during this vibrant season.

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In Like A Lion Out Like A Lamb

Seasonal Nature Reflection Series

The phrase “in like a lion, out like a lamb” is a popular saying used to describe the weather patterns in March, particularly in regions with temperate climates. It refers to the transition from the harsh, wintry conditions at the beginning of the month (represented by a lion) to the milder, spring-like weather towards the end of the month (represented by a lamb).

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Monarch Numbers Are Down By 60%

Featherd Friends & Backyard Guests > Wildlife > Insects > Butterflies, Moths & Skippers

Each year since the 1993 – 1994 migration the World Wildlife Federation has been collecting data from December through January on the number of hectares of land that migrating monarch butterflies occupy in Mexico. This year’s monarch numbers are down by 60% from last year. So, they will need a little extra help this year re-populating.

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