Spring has sprung — and instead of booking a pricey getaway, why not refresh your home and spirit with a good spring cleaning? Indoors, tackle one room at a time by wiping baseboards, washing windows, and decluttering. Let go of what you no longer need by donating usable items and tossing the rest. For a healthier home, try natural cleaning products like baking soda and vinegar instead of harsh chemicals. Outside, inspect your roof and gutters, clean the deck and grill, and prep for outdoor fun. And don’t forget one last chore — yard “poop patrol” to clear away any winter leftovers from your furry friends!

After a record-breaking 2021, Wisconsin’s real estate market cooled in 2022 — home sales dropped nearly 15%, listings fell 18%, and mortgage rates more than doubled. Still, south-central Wisconsin remains active, with many homes selling slightly over asking. Expect higher interest rates to be the new normal and tight inventories to persist as homeowners cling to low-rate mortgages. But that doesn’t mean you should wait — the right strategy can still secure great deals. Whether buying or selling, partnering with an experienced real estate professional can help you navigate pricing, timing, and negotiations to make the most of today’s market.

With bitter cold predicted for early 2023, it’s essential to winter-proof your home and protect your family. Start by preventing frozen pipes — drain outdoor faucets, insulate exposed plumbing, and keep your thermostat above 55°F when away. Trim overhanging branches before ice brings them down, and check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly. If you’re using a fireplace, clear the flue, keep trees and decorations at a safe distance, and store ashes in a metal container outside. And when snow hits, shovel smart — pace yourself, lift with your legs, and watch for heart strain. A little prep now can keep your home safe and cozy all winter long.

As the days grow shorter and the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s still plenty of time to savor fall across Dane County before winter arrives. Start your weekend at the Dane County Farmers’ Market, the nation’s largest producer-only market, running through mid-November. Lace up your boots for a fall hike through colorful trails at the UW Arboretum, Blue Mound State Park, or Pheasant Branch Conservancy. For family fun, wander through local corn mazes and pumpkin patches at Schuster’s Farm or Treinen Farm. And when the sun goes down, warm up indoors with live music from top touring acts and local favorites at venues like the Orpheum Theater and High Noon Saloon. Fall in Dane County is short — make the most of it while it lasts.

’Tis the season to get out and celebrate — and Dane County has no shortage of festive fun. From dazzling lights and holiday markets to 5K runs and family performances, there’s something for everyone this winter. Cruise through the glowing Holiday Fantasy in Lights at Olin Park, sip cocoa after skating at The Edgewater Icehouse, or explore the charming Christkindli Market in New Glarus. Families can visit Santa at McFarland’s Holiday Pet Photos or take in timeless classics like A Christmas Carol at the Overture Center. Whether you’re lacing up for a fun run, shopping for handmade gifts, or simply soaking in the lights, the holidays in Dane County are full of warmth, wonder, and community cheer.

Halloween fun shouldn’t come at the expense of safety. From better lighting to pet precautions, a few simple steps can help protect your home and visitors. Brighten walkways, use LED lights in pumpkins, and clear leaves or decorations that could cause trips. Keep pets secured in another room to avoid stress or escapes, and lock vehicles in well-lit areas to prevent mischief. Finally, help kids stay safe by posting reflective “Watch for Children” signs and reminding drivers to slow down. With a little preparation, you can enjoy a festive and worry-free Halloween night.

Getting involved in your community is one of the most rewarding ways to feel truly at home. In Dane County, there are countless opportunities to give back — from helping stock shelves and serve meals at local food pantries, to walking dogs or fostering cats through animal rescues, to coaching or organizing youth sports teams. Volunteering connects you with others, strengthens neighborhoods, and makes a tangible difference in people’s lives. Whether your passion is feeding families, helping animals, or mentoring young athletes, there’s a place for your time and talent to shine.