A Cappella ...With Strings

This harmonizing group of gentlemen were entertaining shoppers on the steps of the Capitol at the Farmer's Market in Madison last weekend. After their set, the young boy with them played a very patriotic piece on his violin to the delight of the crowd. (His dad was one of the singers.) You can see the violin case lid in the lower left corner of the group shot. He made a pretty penny for his talents!

As you can tell, acceptable 'uniforms' in Wisconsin include Badger and Packers attire. :-)

St. Bernoodle

Half St. Bernard and half standard poodle = a St. Bernoodle! We met this big guy while walking around the Farmer's Market in Madison last weekend. His owner explained that the mix is the best of both worlds: he's big, soft, cuddly and gentle - plus he doesn't shed or drool! His name? 'Curly' Lambeau, of course. This is Wisconsin, after all. :-)

Wild Cucumber

While hiking around Balmer Park just east of here, Nik and I stumbled upon an unusual vine weaving itself through the shrubs. The leaves were so pretty and bright green, almost like a Sycamore. But then I saw the itty-bitty spiky fruit hanging here and there, and realized they were wild cucumbers. I had never seen these before because they don't bear fruit until fall and usually I'm not looking for that sort of thing. Plus this little guy was camouflaged among the wild grape vines.

According to Wikipedia, they are not edible, but with those little spikes, not sure I'd even want to try!

SkyWatch Friday: Fleece

The sun has been setting earlier and earlier each day this month, reminding us that fall is on the way. These fleecy clouds caught the evening glow in just the right way.

See more SkyWatch Friday images here.