Unusual Bat!

I  hope that none of the Trick or Treaters run into this strange bat on their rounds tonight. 

Reminder:  The theme day for November is "Heights."

Protective Vests #2

With protective arm covering, a police officer demonstrates how the dogs are trained to apprehend criminals.  Because most people are right handed, the protective covering is used on the trainee's right arm and the dogs are trained to attack the right arm.  Looks a little scary, doesn't it?  Thank goodness for these dogs who really need the safety of those protective vests.  We were told that the dogs are imported primarily from eastern Europe, especially the Czech Republic because that's where the "good bloodlines are."  Earlier in August another policeman and his dog came to our neighborhood block party and the photos there demonstrate their gentle side, esp with childre.  Some of the police dogs are outdoor dogs, but many of their human partners to whom they are assigned keep them in their home where the dogs are an integral part of the family.  There is a strong attachment between the policeman and the canine partner.

Reminder:  The theme day for November is "Heights."

Protective Vests-ABC Wednesday "P"

 Recently a combined demonstration and fund raiser to get more money to buy protective vests for Twin City metropolitan police dogs was held in our neighborhood.  Because some of these loyal and hardworking canines have been seriously injured (some have died) by criminals with knives and other deadly weapons, protective vests are essential.  The purchase price is costly. . . $950.00.

A wonderful young man, Jim, a beautician at Euphoria arranged for the demonstration and the Salon donated yummy snacks and refreshments as well as a silent auction and a raffle for 6 hair appts. Jim donated 5% of his income that day toward the purchase of a vest(s). Patrons were generous and the result was fantastic.  If you  would like to learn more about this national effort and to make a tax deductable donation go here. .  .  . PRONTO!
Reminder:  The theme day for November is "Heights."

Linked to ABC WEDNESDAY

Saturday Farmer's Market

Even late Saturday morning the Farmer's Market was busy (and chilly!) a week ago.  I passed on the pumpkins but bought millet seed for our parrot, and squash, radishes, beets, scallions, and tomatoes for us. Yum! You haven't lived 'til you've eaten beet greens! Great meals this past week!

Reminder:  The theme day for November is "Heights."

Do it yourself?

Rather than have the shop give this piece of furniture a new look, would you rather do it yourself? It just might be i
an interesting winter project.

Reminder:  November 1st Theme Day photo is : Heights. 

Ukrainian Pyrohys

The November issue of the Minnesota Monthly magazine identified little known places for some good food.  The century old Ukrainian parish of St. Constantine in northeast Minneapolis serves traditional pirogis in the school cafeteria on Fridays each September through April.  Wanting to taste this ethnic food, DH and I went there yesterday and were impressed with the number of people being served by a large group of volunteers.  René who has belonged to the parish all her life explained the food and served
us with a smile.






I had tasted pirogis in the USSR, and these are similar in appearance and texture, although one of the servers said that theirs are definitely superior to the Russians' pirogis! If you are not familiar with them, they are doughy half-moon  dumplings stuffed with potatoes, sauerkraut, and prunes., or anything else, I imagine. Frozen pirogis (which they call "pyrohy") are available to take out with instructions on how to cook them.

Reminder:  The theme day for November is "Heights."

Before and After

Same tree
 Before taken on September 20th and After snapped on October 21.

 Sad, isn't it?

Reminder:  The theme day for November is "Heights."

Halloween

My neighbors really enjoy Halloween!

Reminder:  The theme day for November is "Heights."

A Carpet of Leaves

Overnight Nature left a carpet of leaves! 

Reminder:  The theme day for November is "Heights."

Oh, No! Eddie's Missing-ABC Wednesday "O"

I saw this sign posted on a busy street corner and doubled back to check it out.  Eddie is sorely missed and his owners desperately want to find him.  Hope that the sign helps.  Eddie, go home!!


The November 1 theme for City Daily Photo bloggers is "Heights."

Linked to ABC WEDNESDAY

Ghosts and Goblins!

Ghosta

Get Ready for Ghosts and Goblins!
The November 1 theme for City Daily Photo bloggers is "Heights."

A gazebo?

Historic Summit Avenue has many beautiful and imposing old houses lining the street.  Last September I showed you a fancy gate and unusual fence (here and here) surrounding one of the homes. Recently I found a way to check inside the property and discovered this sculpture and benches.  Pretty fancy and rather small for a gazebo, but I don't know how else to label it.  Whatever it is called, it is unusual, but that's Summit Avenue!!

The November 1 theme for City Daily Photo bloggers is "Heights."

A Little Much?

A Bit Overwhelming?

The November 1 theme for City Daily Photo bloggers is "Heights."

I'm Back!

 Many thanks to all my cyber friends who visited this blog while I was feeling "under the weather."

Unlike today's rainy and gloomy weather, here is a photo of a recent and very quiet morning in St. Paul.  Few cars on the freeway but sunny and bright with fall edging toward winter.  Below is the unsupported marble dome of the Capitol with the four golden horses representing earth, air, fire, and water. The building was designed by Cass Gilbert who modeled it after the Basilica in Rome. and the dome is the second largest in the world after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Wikipedia has a complete description of the  Capitol building; if interested, go here.

Close-up of the horses is credited to Wikipedia

Sabbatical

Until I get a medical solution to my neck pain, I will not be posting my photos or visiting your blogs on a regular basis.  I cannot find a position to type without pain.  But, I'll be back!!  Sooner than later I hope.

Well-known Marathoner

Didn't realize when I took his photo that this runner is well-known.  Later I found a previous interview with him on You Tube

To my blogging friends, I haven't been commenting on your posts for awhile because of a difficult  neck issue, making the typing after just a few minutes pretty painful despite some pain killers.  I'm following your posts, though!  I've pre-scheduled a few photos and hope that they won't run out before this issue is resolved.  Happy blogging, everyone.

Runners-Marathon #3

Special Categories

...And Here's Ben!-Marathon #2

Parents Waiting for Ben to Arrive

32nd Twin City Marathon

12,000 runners hit the road Sunday, beginning in Minneapolis and ending at the Capitol building in downtown
St.Paul for the 26.2 mile  Twin  City Marathon.

Minnesota Worker #6

Whenever I return to the school where I used to teach I make it a point to see Karen, one of the staff members who make the cafeteria work well.  I am always rewarded with a hug and a happy greeting from this hard-working woman who has been serving the students, staff and faculty for the past several decades. About 12 years ago her grand-daughter was the Olympic goalie on the USA Women's Hockey team, and it was a happy time for her and her admirers.  Recently I attended an evening function, and, of course, Karen was taking care of all the folks who were there for class reunions. . . working during the day and putting in extra hours on the week-end. Proud to know this Minnesota Worker!

Minnesota Workers #4 & 5-An Apple a Day...

The first official day of fall was a perfect time to visit Aamodt's Orchard.  On that day the sunny sky and pleasant temperature motivated us to make our annual visit to this family farm that has expanded its business over the years to include a snack bar, a winery on the premises, canned apple products (jams, apple butter, salsa), pies and pastries, an outdoor playground for children, and hot air balloon rides.

While I decided which apples to select from a wide variety, I talked to two Stillwater High School students who are working at the orchard's store for the first time this year.  Sam, on the left, is a junior whereas Matt is in his senior year.  Both young men gave me good advice and helped me select the best variety for apple sauce. When I asked their post high school plans, Sam indicated that since he is still a junior, he's concentrating on just finishing school.  Matt would like to go to the University of Wisconsin, Madison.  I laughed and said it's a big campus and huge transition for a freshman and to beware because it has a reputation for being a big party school.  Matt's eyes lit up so I guess this hard working lad plans to combine and balance both academics and pleasure!

Incidentally, my crockpot-cooked-overnight applesauce was delicious!  I think I'm due for  another apple run!

Community Practice

I decided that I will start attending some meetings at Common Ground Meditation Center because I like their programs and the idea of "practicing together in the footsteps of the Buddha."  According to their Statement of Purpose: Common Ground is a community meditation center dedicated to the practice of mindfulness.  Mindfulness is the practice of being present with the moment and learning to be at ease with the unfolding conditions of life.  With practice, mindfulness reveals deep wisdom, compassion, and freedom.

I wonder how long it will take for me to become more wise and compassionate?

Buddha and Me

When I visited Common Grounds Meditation Center last Sunday, I was impressed with the simple and lovely decorations and statues in the building.

A friend took the opportunity to take a photo of me surreptitiously as I was photographing Buddha.  Some friends just can't be trusted.

Talking Volumes #2-Margret Atwood

73-year-old Margaret Atwood, the author of 14 novels and many other books of poetry and commentary, totally wowed and entertained the audience at the Fitzgerald Theatre in downtown St. Paul last night.  She is witty, intelligent, and quick with a clever quip.  She is definitely one of the most joyful and entertaining writers I have had the pleasure of seeing during a Talking Volumes interview.

Talking Volumes

Talking Volumes, Minnesota's nationally acclaimed regional book club, spotlights current books and their authors in Star Tribune articles, author appearances at Saint Paul's Fitzgerald Theater, and Minnesota Public Radio broadcasts. Talking Volumes is a partnership of the Star Tribune and MPR in collaboration with The Loft Literary Center. 

2013 Talking Volumes Season

• Edwidge Danticat: September 25, 2013
• Margaret Atwood: October 1, 2013
• Rick Riordan: October 15, 2013
• Pat Conroy: November 12, 2013
• (Credit: Loft Literary Center)

Details-Theme Day, October, 2013

The charm is in the details.  Last Sunday I tagged along with a friend and visited Common Ground Meditation Center.  After the service I mingled  in the common room, admiring the children's artwork. I'm not sure  what the mask depicted, but the details of these two definitely stood out.  (Click each mask to enlarge to see if you agree)

To see how others have captured details for this month's theme, go here.