January/February 2026 NL

• Spun in the Family In Mitchell, the Wells family’s Brown Sheep Company spins, dyes and weaves wool into thousands of colorful skeins, 40 years strong. story by Ariella Nardizzi, photographs by Hawk Buckman
• The Spirit of Nebraska Photo Contest The second installment of Nebraska Life’s photo contest spotlights intimate portraits, hometown pride, and names the long-awaited Photographer of the Year.
• Timeless Tastes Five classic Nebraska eateries preserve nostalgia, family recipes and retro charm across generations. by Ariella Nardizzi

On the Cover: A crescent moon rises behind the 19-foot bronze Sower atop the Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln. The image was selected as a winner in Nebraska Life’s “Spirit of Nebraska”. photograph by Mark Coe