AN Outdoorsman’s JOURNAL First Winter Camping Trip MARK WALTERS COLUMNIST This week, I had a few firsts and a very good time, as well. Please read on, and I hope you enjoy! MONDAY, DEC. 20 HIGH 38, LOW 23 What do you do when southern Wisconsin does not have enough ice, if any, to walk on (much less winter camp)? You go north and find ice, or in my case, call a friend!

CAMPING from page 11 headlamps on my living room floor. That was an unfortunate mistake. My other error (and it was more painful) was that I had bought one gallon of water for drinking, and it was in a milk jug. Apparently, I did a very poor job of rinsing it out, and the water in it tasted like sour milk. In short, drinking water and brushing my teeth was not pleasant on this adventure. This

Caring for Plants Overwintering Indoors MELINDA MYERS CONTRIBUTOR Gardeners are notorious for pushing the limits of their growing zones. Tropical plants, succulents, and other plants that are not hardy to the winter climate often end up indoors for the winter. It usually starts with one or two plants that you just can’t part with or are concerned you won’t be able to purchase next year.

| PUBLISHER LETTER | The Beautiful Parallels: Origins of Christmas and the Spirit of Giving Dear Reader, As we approach the most wonderful time of the year, it is only fitting to reflect upon the origins of Christmas and the remarkable parallels between the Christian celebration and the beloved traditions of Santa Claus, embodying goodness and giving. Christmas, at its core, is a celebration

| ENJOY EVERY SANDWICH | ‘The Way She Goes’ MITCHELL BRADLEY KELLER JOURNALIST It’s been a while since I checked in on the state’s beloved professional football team (the Green Bay Packers, just to be certain), and after an upand- down midseason, I thought it time to observe and report. For those who have checked out, the Pack hit the midway mark of the 17-game ladder with more