Monkey See, Monkey Do

During a recent visit to see my newborn niece, I spent much of the day playing with her big brother and sister.  Of course, the three of us had a great time at the park, riding bikes, eating lunch at a local cafe, reading books and playing with a few inexpensive toys that I brought for them, including horns for their bicycles.  After the little ones squeeked those new horns (for what seemed like 100 times each) big brother decided to hold his over his ear and squeek it some more.  And, when little sister saw what he was doing, she joined right in.  My initial reaction was to stop them and briefly explain why that wasn't a good idea; however, after only a few direct squeeks to the ears, they stopped -- no explanation necessary.

Blooming Now

Just a few days ago while taking a walk I spotted some gorgeous peonies along with numerous bright yellow dandelions.  Although the latter is usually perceived as less than desirable, I found the bold color beautiful in contrast to the lush green lawn in which they were growing.  So, for the time being let's just enjoy these gorgeous late spring bloomers and their delightful colors that currently adorn our landscape.
 

A Stick Horse?

Woodrow by Deborah Butterfield

Yes and no.

Sculptor Deborah Butterfield, who rides and trains horses on her Montana ranch, essentially built Woodrow from a variety of found materials, including wood fragments, wire, scrap metal, mud, straw, brick dust and so on.  According to Walker Art Center information, she took the sticks and bark and cast each in bronze.  Next, she constructed the horse by welding all of those items.  In order to retain the authentic look of wooden sticks, she then "patinated" each element.

This amazing sculpture is at home in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and is one of many outstanding works belonging to the Walker Art Center.  Even if you don't reside in that area, the following link will allow to take a virtual tour of the incredible designs of some very talented individuals:  www.walkerart.org/garden/

Dreamy Day at the Beach

                       

"The Sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever."

                                              --Jacques Cousteau

Memorial Day

A scene from Arlington National Cemetery

Birthday Boy

Happy birthday to my nephew and godchild.  May his day be filled with laughter and fun and all the excitement an 8-year-old boy can find, including whoopie cushions, screeching plastic chickens and little orange finger monsters!  (Geeez, I wonder who gave those things to him?)  And, since he loves Legos, I am betting that he will have plenty of new sets to build.

Reflection & Fog

This image was taken from the banks of the Maquoketa River on an early winter morning.  In this locale geese commonly flock to the open water; however, not often do I capture the reflection amid the foggy backdrop of this late November day.  And, if you listen carefully or use your imagination, perhaps you'll hear these feathered friends honking loudly overhead.