Ruffed Grouse – A Close Encounter in the Wisconsin Woods
A ruffed grouse walks within arm’s reach during a quiet sit in the Wisconsin woods. A rare, close encounter captured on video.
Which Buck Is My Dad’s? A 50-Year-Old Wisconsin Hunting Story
Last month while visiting my mom and dad, I asked Dad about a buck he shot a long time ago.
A really nice eight-point.
The kind of deer that sticks in a hunter’s memory for the rest of his life.
It was probably more than 50 years ago. Maybe closer to 60.
Back then he had a full shoulder mount made. For years the buck hung in their living room. Eventually it was donated to the nature center at the Navarino Wildlife Area.
The other day I decided to go see if I could find it.
A Quiet Winter Reflection from Rural Wisconsin
A quiet reflection on winter, patience, and simple moments during February in rural Wisconsin, where stillness, cold, and waiting shape daily life.
Beyond the Thermostat: A February Night in Otter Creek
Grain and hay are fed, the water tank is filled, the barn cats have a treat, and the north wind was trying to take the skin off my hands.
Just a standard February night in Otter Creek.
The Midnight Sanctuary: Why Deer Chose My Yard
A quiet look at the three whitetail deer that settled into my yard last night, and the survival science behind their “bedroom” choice.
Forget the Salt: Why Hay Chaff is the Ultimate Winter Traction Hack
Tired of fighting a losing battle against black ice with bags of salt and sand? I skip the hardware store and head to the barn. By using hay chaff—the fine, fibrous leftovers from hay bales—I transformed a dangerous, icy driveway into a high-traction path that’s safe for tires and paws alike. Discover why this old-school homesteading trick is the most eco-friendly (and effective) way to handle a deep freeze.