Pewaukee Daily Photo

Winter River Sunrise

2012-01-12T09:41:00.000-08:00

During a quiet walk on a recent frosty morning, I took this photo looking south towards the Mississippi River bridge in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

A Cappella ...With Strings

2011-09-22T20:43:00.000-07:00

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

2011-09-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

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

2011-09-18T21:51:00.000-07:00

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

2011-09-15T23:02:00.000-07:00

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.

Sunny Delight

2011-08-28T11:46:00.000-07:00

We are growing a variety of sunflowers in our garden this year and they are in full bloom. I love this burgundy/peach version, and apparently, so do the bees! If you look closely at the photo below, you'll also see a shiny metallic Japanese Beetle in the center. They were especially pesky this year and invaded many of the trees and gardens in our neighborhood.

Oh, Deer

2011-08-27T19:01:00.001-07:00

This young doe was taken by surprise during our recent hike. We stood quietly just watching her, and she stared at me (and Nik) for a long time before cautiously walking away. Suddenly, another deer joined her and they bounded off into the woods.

Black Butterfly - Part 3

2011-08-26T15:21:00.000-07:00

I believe this might be the 'Spicebush Swallowtail' butterfly. It looks very similar to the 'Pipevine Swallowtail' or the black version of the 'Yellow Tiger Swallowtail.' Mother Nature loves to fool us!

The angles below shows the butterfly 'mid-flight' - as it's landing on the clover - and then as it's perched. Be sure to double-click on the images to see them full size.

Butterfly - Part 2

2011-08-23T22:27:00.001-07:00

In keeping with the "Lepidoptera" theme of a few days ago, I am posting a few images of some pretty, buttery yellow tiger swallowtail butterflies that we saw up on the Ryan Road hiking trails. The one above really enjoyed the pink clover. If you look closely at the photo of his fluttery friend below, you'll notice the poor guy's wing looks like it has seen a little rough action, but he still seemed to get around fine.

It's amazing how, at first glance they all sort of look alike, yet if you compare them closely, you can see lots of differences.

Lepidoptera

2011-08-21T08:57:00.000-07:00

...meaning butterflies and moths! Of which there have been plenty to see this summer. These tiny little orange butterflies were congregating around some marsh flowers at Simmons Woods a few days ago.

This furry moth (below) was resting in the sun at the Ryan Rd. trail. I love his feathery little pantaloons!

Sister Suzie Sittin' on a Thistle...

2011-07-24T09:41:00.001-07:00

(Love that line from the "Music Man"!)

Every year thistles grow wild throughout the fields in the upper midwest, and every year I am always perplexed as to why such a gorgeous flower is considered a "weed."

[Note: Be sure to click the photos, and then click again, to see the full size view.]

Sandbar Party

2011-07-21T14:10:00.000-07:00

Part of life on the river is boating. And part of boating (along with fishing) is cruising on a warm, sunny afternoon and enjoying the stops along the way. Sandbars are areas of sandy beaches skirting the wooded shores of the river and are popular spots for overnight camping, swimming, exploring, and general fun. The biggest challenge is keeping the mosquitoes at bay. Many a "S'more" has been enjoyed over an open evening campfire over the years!

Pontoon boats (below) are a favorite way of sailing up and down the main channel of the Mississippi near La Crosse.

[Note: Be sure to click the photos, and then click again, to see the full size view.]

Barge

2011-07-20T20:12:00.001-07:00

A red barge docked on the Mississippi River near La Crosse, WI.

Bridges

2011-07-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

During our La Crosse Queen excursion (see 7/16 post) we travelled up the Mississippi River to the railroad extension bridge between Wisconsin and Minnesota (above). We then turned around and continued downstream, past Riverside Park and under the twin span highway bridge also connecting Wisconsin and Minnesota (below).

Big Wheel Keep on Turning...

2011-07-16T19:54:00.000-07:00

While visiting La Crosse, Wisconsin a few weeks ago, we took a "La Crosse Queen" paddleboat ride on the Mississippi River. The "Queen" is docked at Riverside Park and has a pretty regular schedule during the summer and fall months. Our sunset cruise last 1-1/2 hours and toured up north towards the railroad bridge crossing, and then headed back down south, past the park and under the Mississippi span bridges. (More photos will be posted over the next few days.)

Good Luck

2011-07-14T06:48:00.001-07:00

This sign located along the Pewaukee Lake beach sidewalk seems to suggest the impossible. I believe it would have been better for the arrow to illustrate either right or left, rather than up!

Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay

2011-07-13T07:07:00.001-07:00

The pier on Pewaukee Lake is a very popular fishing spot for locals and visitors alike.

Meet John

2011-07-12T06:32:00.001-07:00

"What happens in the garage, stays in the garage!" claims his t-shirt." John is a retired gentleman with lots of stories to tell who frequents the lakefront during the summer, often chatting with old friends and making new ones.

He is a veteran of Korea (pre-conflict) and was a grocery store butcher for most of his working days. His daughter gave him the shirt to celebrate the fact that he is always in the garage working, fixing, or building something. Although now he's mostly a shoreline helper, his local claim to fame was performing in the weekly Pewaukee Lake waterski show as the character "MisterRogers." He would put on his sweater and canvas boat shoes all while on waterskis, and from a distance, most little kids were convinced!

A day at the beach

2011-07-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

The lazy days of summer are here in full force, so we wandered down to the beach at Pewaukee Lake last week to enjoy the sun, sand, and water. Of course, the best part is people-watching!

Mushroom Tree

2011-06-27T20:07:00.001-07:00

A moss covered tree trunk full of mini-shelf mushrooms on a trail at Lapham Peak in Waukesha County.

Bandits-Redux!

2011-06-26T20:33:00.000-07:00

UPDATE! This afternoon I was able go back over to the big tree on the corner and get a closer shot of the baby raccoons with my regular camera... there are FIVE of them...(maybe more?) Be sure to double-click the photo to see the close-up of their cute little faces. :-)

[See the original posting and image of them in my 6/25/11 entry.]

Bandits

2011-06-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

So, I'm patiently waiting my turn at the 4-way stop at the edge of our subdivision, when I casually glance out my my window at a huge knothole in an ancient box elder tree. Imagine my surprise, when I see these two little guys poke their heads out and stare back at me! (I must apologize for the poor quality of this particular image - I did not have my regular camera with me while out running errands....isn't that always the case?) I quickly pulled over and was lucky enough to get a snapshot with my cell phone before they ducked back down inside.

The odd part about this is that, even though we live in a semi-rural area, and see lots of turkeys, pheasants, ground hogs, possum, and deer, I can't recall the last time we saw a raccoon wander through the area.

SkyWatch: Like a Prayer

2011-06-24T06:17:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken just before a recent evening thunderstorm. The cloud formation below the setting sun almost appears to be a pair of hands praying upward.

See more SkyWatch Friday images here.

Waukesha Shops

2011-06-20T07:20:00.001-07:00

The open mall area in downtown Waukesha features lots of cute little shops. A favorite is "Coffee & Beans" for an alternative to the big java chains. :-)

Sunset at 65 mpg

2011-06-19T20:59:00.000-07:00

A nice view of the hazy sunset as we were driving back to Pewaukee from downtown Milwaukee on Friday evening. We didn't really have spring this year in Wisconsin, but there is always 'construction' season!

See more SkyWatch Friday pix here.

Hot Stuff

2011-06-07T07:10:00.000-07:00

Summer is officially just around the corner here in Wisconsin, but with today's temps predicted to reach into the 90's, I think we're already there. At least this potted ranunculus bloom seems to love all this hot weather.

Just Kidding

2011-06-06T06:31:00.000-07:00

One of the many shops in downtown Waukesha is a fun spot simply called the 'Joke Shop.' A great place for Halloween and other party items, it shows an array of wares in their front window (below.)

Allo Chocolate

2011-06-05T18:40:00.000-07:00

Every Saturday morning during the warmer months of the year Waukesha has a farmer's market. I didn't have my camera on me when we walked through this week, but afterwards we stopped by the car and I picked it up before we wandered around the shops in the old-fashioned downtown area. 'Allo Chocolate' is one of the local establishments that we visited. Trying to choose something from all their options (see below) was a difficult, yet delicious, decision. (We ultimately chose a Macadamia Nut Truffle and a Mint Meltaway.) We will be back!

Remember that the mighty oak...

2011-06-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

...was once a nut like you. :-)

There are many giant oaks on the Ryan Road trails. The above photo shows a white oak tree (Quercus Alba) in bloom. Most people are unaware that acorns start out as clusters of little 'catkin' like flowers. To see an example of the resulting acorns in the fall, click here (acorn photo credit to 'jlkuhns').

Flood

2011-06-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

In early April, during a visit to La Crosse, we stopped by Riverside Park on the Mississippi River. The spring snows had melted upstream and the flooding had begun. This view is looking south toward the bridge between Wisconsin and Minnesota. The flooded brick walkway below the statues of the children is normally an open path to the steamboat docking. The cement curb beyond the docking posts is part of the levee usually above water. Across the river you can see the Pettibone Island beach house has been flooded as well.

The photo below shows the same landing looking northward, where the Black River (on the right) joins the main channel of the Mississippi (on the left.)

Incoming!

2011-06-02T19:19:00.000-07:00

There are several pairs of Sand Hill Cranes that frequent our rural neighborhood each year. This pair is fond of the fields located next to the farmette in yesterday's post. The image is a little blurry because I had to zoom in quickly once I heard their throaty, garbled warble above me as they came in for a landing. Highly entertaining birds!

You can see all SkyWatch Friday entries here.

Eggs For Sale

2011-06-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

Up on Swan Road, right at the border of Pewaukee and Lisbon, is a refurbished farmstead. It used to be a working farm with fields of corn and soybeans and several barns with cows, chickens, goats, and even a corral with horses. The elderly couple who lived there recently moved out and sold most of their land for development. The new owners use the smaller tract that remains as more of a "gentleman's farm" with a only few horses and a coop of chickens. Just recently we noticed the "Organic Farm-Fresh Eggs" sign out front. One of these days, as time allows, we'll have to give them a try!

Mushrooms

2011-05-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

During our recent quest for the elusive morels up on the Ryan Road trails, we came across a handful of other beautiful specimens of fungi (but never did find any morels this year.) These are mostly "shelf mushrooms" which usually grow on dead trees or fallen timbers. The top image is called a "Pheasant's Back." I'm not sure of the identification of the ones below.

Watercress

2011-05-28T22:44:00.000-07:00

While searching for morel mushrooms recently, we came up empty handed. Instead, we came across this lovely patch of watercress in a local stream. It added to a healthy, crispy, & delicious salad!

Skywatch: Pewaukee Farm

2011-05-27T22:06:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite vistas on the Ryan Road hiking trails. Such a pleasant, quiet refuge - far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Looking westward, it's a great place to watch the cloud formations and weather move in.

You can see more SkyWatch Friday photos here.

A Little Disconcerting...

2011-05-25T20:06:00.000-07:00

I drive under this Capitol Drive bridge overpass almost every day on my way to work. If you look closely at the image below, you'll see a large crack with missing pieces of cement that are outlined in neon red paint. My guess is that it is on the county road crew's docket for repair, but it's been like this for months. I can't even imagine what other near-disasters are causing such a delay of the repair. It's getting to the point where I say a little "Hail Mary" while driving under it, and I'm not even Catholic! ;-)

Hickory Blossom

2011-05-22T15:28:00.001-07:00

These amazing "blooms" are often overlooked because most people aren't aware that the hickory tree "leaf fronds" blossom out in such a beautiful manner.

Bill and Coo

2011-05-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

We have a pair of mourning doves frequenting our yard this year. They especially like Bill's garden now that he's tilled it because the worms and little bugs are easier to get at. They are so sweet and each morning we can hear the familiar 'hoo-hoo-hooooo' as they sit on the perimeter of the garden.

As the song goes: "Don't sit under the apple tree with anyone else but me..."

Virginia Bluebells

2011-05-16T19:50:00.000-07:00

We have a small patch of Virginia Bluebells back in our tree line that come up every spring. They are finally in bloom! Bluebells (also called the Virginia Cowslip) are a perennial plant native to North America.

Loud Mouth!

2011-05-15T19:46:00.001-07:00

Every spring the Robins build several nests around our yard. For the past few years they have decided to set up shop on the lower branches of a tall spruce near our patio. Noticing the Mama Robin's busy flight to and fro, we suspected the eggs had hatched. Yep! This little baby is hungry. Another photo below shows them just before the "squeaky wheel" opened her mouth!

Squall Line

2011-05-13T11:14:00.000-07:00

The clouds show a distinct squall line as a thunderstorm moves into our neighborhood from the Northwest.

See more images at SkyWatch Friday.

Fill'er Up

2011-05-12T06:17:00.000-07:00

Happy's Garage is a long-time fixture on the south side of La Crosse. Located next to the railroad tracks behind the Village Shopping Center, many an auto has been repaired or sold here. A few years back, when a huge tree out front died, they cut most of it away, but some creative person crafted this old-time gas pump with the "remains."

Nose to the wind!

2011-05-11T06:14:00.000-07:00

Harriet, our daughter's 2-year old 'CockaPoo,' enjoys a car ride to the local dog park. You can't quite tell from this photo, but her eyes are squeezed shut as she enjoys the brisk breeze (with all its wonderful spring smells!) in her face.

1908

2011-05-10T04:56:00.000-07:00

On Mother's Day we took my mom on a drive around the city of La Crosse, to places we hadn't been for years. This barn and silo is at the east end of Cass Street, which turns into Ebner Coulee Road and meanders up behind Granddad's Bluff. From this angle, you can barely see the sign that says '1908' at the top of the roof...this farmstead was established over a century ago! Below is a back view of the barn from the next street over where you can better see how it is nestled at the bottom of the bluff.

Nanking Cherry

2011-05-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

Our old neighbors back in Wauwatosa gave us a little Nanking cherry tree seedling (Prunus Tomentosa) a year after we moved out to Pewaukee. I dutifully planted it back in our tree line and tended to it for the first few years, only to see it mown over by the subdivision groundskeepers. Heartbroken, I nursed the little stalk - which still had a few leaves - back to life, and put a small barrier of chicken wire around it. Surely that would deter the mowers. Nope! The next year we found the wire bent and twisted in the tree line and the little tree was completely gone! We sadly admitted defeat and soon forgot about it.

Last summer while cleaning out some brush in the tree line, I noticed a small bush near the edge that was overgrown with tall grass. A closer peak revealed that it was covered in tiny cherries. The Nanking had survived after all! Apparently over the past few years, the mowers had changed their boundaries just enough for the little tree to come back to life, yet still be hidden by other wild plants. We cleared it out a bit and put another, larger protection barrier around the slim trunk, and this year it's flowering beautifully. Can hardly wait for the cherries of summer!

Pewaukee River Watershed

2011-05-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

The creeks and marshes in the lowlands of Pewaukee converge near the Simmons Woods Wetlands. From here the water flows into the Pewaukee River, which in turn empties into the Fox River to the south. We recently took a hike in Simmons Woods Park and took the above shot. The trees are barely leafing out, but it is still a place of pristine, natural beauty. This view looks east towards a heron rookery (see image below) where the Great Blue Herons make their nests in tall bare trees within the safety of the marsh.

The Sky is Alive

2011-05-05T14:35:00.001-07:00

In early April we spent 5 days in Savannah, Georgia. The historic district boasts amazing classic architecture and dozens of beautiful park squares. One of the most dramatic sites in the area are the huge "live oak" trees, hanging with wispy Spanish moss. This tree sprawled nearly across the whole park.

An aside: We are still waiting for our trees to bud out here....[Impatiently folding arms & tapping foot!]

Spring has Sprung!

2011-05-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

It's been a chilly season this year in Pewaukee. We've only had one day in the 70's so far & that was way back on April 10th. We did have a lovely, sunny day last Friday (4/29 - the same day as the Royal Wedding!) and during my morning walk, I discovered this pretty little patch of wildflowers blooming on the north side of Lindsay Road. I've noticed them in this same shady spot each spring for the past few years, but have never seen them anywhere else. I have some "feelers" out to my botanist friends, so I hope to discover their official name soon.

Caterpillar

2010-09-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

Not sure what type of butterfly or moth this tan furry caterpillar will turn into - but he sure was cute and fuzzy. Reminded me of a muppet! :-)

Parker Pears

2010-09-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

Our neighbors have a beautiful "Parker Pear" tree in their front yard. It's healthy and compact and each year in early autumn bears these gorgeous juicy, red fruits. The only challenge is keeping the bees at bay while picking them!

Gothic Autumn

2010-09-19T13:08:00.000-07:00

As you drive east on Cass Street in downtown La Crosse, toward the Mississippi River Bridge, you will pass this very old gothic mansion. The chill in the air and the changing color of the leaves lent an eerie feel to its presence on this early autumn afternoon. One can almost imagine Norman Bates peaking out from one of the upper windows!

Two Towers Sunset

2010-09-18T21:33:00.001-07:00

The reflective glass of the two bank towers on Hwy. 45 and Good Hope Road in Milwaukee often displays a colorful sunset photo opportunity. This was taken as I was leaving work one evening. The Hilton Garden Inn is in the foreground.

Birdhouse Gourds

2010-09-08T07:03:00.001-07:00

We also came across a table of "birdhouse" gourds (v. Lagenaria) at the Madison Farmer's Market. These are grown to make pretty, decorative dwellings for your feathered friends. Simply use a large drill bit to create an opening, add other embellishments, and hang from a tree or hook. It will last a season or so outdoors before weather and use breaks it down. You can also just use it as a display piece indoors. (Example shown below is from ParkSeed.com.)

Candina's

2010-09-07T07:06:00.000-07:00

The austere decor of this small shop in Madison, just across from the Capitol building, belies the delicious truth within its display cases: chocolate truffles locally made in Verona, Wisconsin! Decadent and elegant, Candina's offers decidedly adult varieties, with flavors like champagne, ginger, hazelnut, jasmine, espresso, chai, and elderflower. I bought a small sampler box of the latter, and found it to be a deep chocolate laced with a bright citrusy flavor. Excellent!

Capitol Steps

2010-09-06T18:11:00.000-07:00

The state capitol building in Madison, Wisconsin, looms large and lovely on this beautiful late summer morning. Each Saturday, Capitol Square is teeming with vendors and thousands of people searching for the freshest produce and flowers around. Also, being the home to our state government, there are also scores of booths touting any social and political statement you may (or may not) subscribe to!

The photo below shows a close-up of the dome, topped by Daniel Chester French's elegant gilded bronze statue, "Wisconsin."

Farmer's Market Veggies

2010-09-05T07:12:00.001-07:00

The selection is always overwhelming at the Saturday morning farmer's market around Capitol Square in Madison, Wisconsin. This vendor had a variety of gorgeous looking produce on his tables.

Conveniently, this post fits in nicely with City Daily Photo's September Theme Day of "Open Air Markets."

Bagpiper

2010-09-04T21:39:00.000-07:00

This Scottish Piper was entertaining the crowd at Saturday's farmer's market in Madison, Wisconsin. However, I didn't notice the look of disdain he was giving me while I took his photo until I was working on it PhotoShop!

We often make the pleasant drive over to our state capital to take advantage of the seasonal harvest, which is now in full swing. Watch for more pictures of our visit during the next few days.

Macro Geranium

2010-09-03T20:10:00.000-07:00

I finally got a new camera. Much better than my old Canon Powershot A710 - but small enough so that I can still carry it in my pocket or crossbody bag during my walks and hikes. It's a Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 and I love it! Above is a sample from the first set of photos I took with it. It's a close-up/macro night shot of a single geranium flower taken during a light rain. Especially like the fact I could get such nice detail without any elaborate settings.

More Fungus Among Us

2010-08-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

After our hot and humid summer, we are also seeing quite an amazing variety of shelf-type mushrooms growing on and around the dead trees along our trails. These were both growing on the scars of where branches had been removed many years ago.

Sunbeams

2010-08-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

There has been no end to the spectacular sunsets here in the Pewaukee area this summer, so here is another one taken on the same day as my 8/13 post.

SkyWatch Friday: Islands in the Sun

2010-08-27T10:25:00.000-07:00

A dramatic view of some distant islands in the mist? Or, wait - here is a different perspective:

They are really just clouds in a fiery sky at sunset. A storm front was moving through the area which yielded to clear skies.The second photo shows the foreground to anchor your imagination!

See all SkyWatch Friday images here.

City of the Big Shoulders

2010-08-26T19:07:00.000-07:00

We drove down to Chicago last weekend to see our son, Seth. He won a trip through his work (top regional sales!) and flew in from Phoenix for a 4-day visit. Saturday afternoon was the only free time he had and the weather was ideal: blue skies, sunny and warm, but not too humid. And talk about people! The streets were teeming with them, walking, skating, biking, site-seeing, and shopping. We stopped at a great little restaurant called the "Gage" - right across from Grant Park on Michigan Ave. and had a delightful lunch together. We sat near the front windows with a super vantage point for people-watching! Afterward, we wandered past the Art Institute of Chicago (our favorite), through the park, and enjoyed browsing an art show on the green. Next was a stroll down to Lake Michigan to watch the sailboats, and then back again through Millennium Park. All around us the skyline was such an interesting backdrop. I love the architecture in this city.

A perfect day - but much too short, as then we had to say our good-byes and be on our way. We'll see Seth again in October when he flies back home to Milwaukee for a GB Packers game. We'll be back down to Chicago, that toddlin' town, any other time the opportunity presents itself.

Black-Eyed Susans

2010-08-23T07:06:00.000-07:00

While at "Taste of Lake Country" at Pewaukee Lake a few weeks ago, I couldn't resist taking a picture of these happy Black-Eyed Susans. There is a lovely tended garden at the west end of the park with other Wisconsin native flowers, along with a few exotics, such as hibiscus.

Sunflowers!

2010-08-22T15:21:00.001-07:00

A series of sunflowers from our garden. We usually grow a row of tall multi-color sunflowers as a back-drop to our vegetable garden. While this summer's torrential rains and hot, humid weather seemed to stifle most of our tomatoes and peppers, the sunflowers thrived. To all things there is a season...

SkyWatch Friday: Radio Waves

2010-08-13T21:38:00.001-07:00

The sunset illuminated some thunderclouds in the distance. In the foreground is one of the many microwave towers that are scattered about our community. Perhaps they are sending radio waves to the stars? ;-p

See all SkyWatch Friday entries here.

SkyWatch Friday: Cloud Shadows

2010-08-06T22:07:00.000-07:00

The clouds cast an eerie, shadowy pattern across the sky during a recent sunset.

See all SkyWatch entries here.

Please visit my other photo-blog here.

Taste of Lake Country: Theme Day - Bright Colors

2010-08-01T13:39:00.000-07:00

This is what waiting for summer in Wisconsin is all about.
You can read more here.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants of August "Theme" Day.

It's all happening at the zoo...

2010-07-28T06:26:00.001-07:00

...I really do believe it's true. ~ Paul Simon.

Read more here!

Violet

2010-05-19T06:29:00.000-07:00

On recent chilly morning on my way to work, I drove past the horse farm on Weyer Rd. and saw Violet sunning herself in the barnyard. :-)

Two-Tone Tulip

2010-05-17T07:17:00.000-07:00

During my last visit to La Crosse over Mother's Day, I happened to spot this colorful tulip in Riverside Park. The unexpected splash of red in the yellow flower really stood out. I love it when Mother Nature plays with us!

A weed by any other name...

2010-04-05T18:39:00.000-07:00

(With apologies to Shakespeare)...this clump of dandelions burst forth on the south side of a building not too far from our neighborhood. Even though we can have snow and freezing temps into mid-May around these parts, their sunny faces can't help but make me smile and believe in the summer ahead.

Wrestlemania

2010-03-09T07:58:00.000-08:00

Looks like the Pewaukee High School wrestling team has gone to state for the third year in a row. Go, Pirates!!

Mad as March Hare

2010-03-07T17:12:00.001-08:00

During my Saturday morning walk in La Crosse, I came across this rusty little rabbit watching over a mulched flower garden next to an old house. It seemed appropriate since Tim Burton's version of "Alice in Wonderland" is now playing in local theaters, and the Ides of March is coming up on the 15th.

Turns out that both hatters and hares can be mad.

Twisted Fork Brunch

2010-03-04T16:05:00.000-08:00

I had brunch with my daughter at the Twisted Fork last Sunday, although we eschewed the "booze" part of it. An omelet with bacon and cheese, rye toast and a bitty bowl of fruit was only $7. Such a deal. They also serve great Alterra coffee.

For those of you who might be familiar with Milwaukee's east side, it's in the same location as the old "Oriental Drugs." You can see a favorite old-time local tee-shirt here.

Casablanca

2010-03-03T07:10:00.000-08:00

"Of all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world...she walks into mine."

This Middle-Eastern style restaurant is located on Brady Street in Milwaukee. Not exactly Morocco, although, they do offer elaborate hookah pipes and flavored tobacco, just like Sydney Greenstreet smoked in the movie. Plus belly dancers on Friday nights...yowza! Read more about Casablanca (the restaurant) here.

Happy Days?

2010-03-02T20:19:00.001-08:00

How appropriate for downtown Milwaukee. Just seeing this silly cover made me smile, even amidst the flying snowflakes! Spring is coming, we just need to be patient.

Could Always be Worse

2010-03-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

Looks like March is coming in like a lamb this year. A very COLD lamb, but still - we'll take sunshine whenever we can get it! :-) It's hard to imagine that the corn will be "knee-high by the Fourth of July" in these fields.

Necco Candy Wafers

2010-02-28T09:50:00.000-08:00

This faded storage silo for the local division of the Stark Candy Company is painted to represent their famous Necco Candy Wafers. I recall as kid these were the best purchase, because for a nickel you got a whole roll of multi-colored fruity tabs! Although, now they have certainly lost their appeal for me - tasting mostly like sweet colored chalk. Ah, the sophistication of the adult palate. :-)

Moonscape

2010-02-26T17:58:00.000-08:00

...or is it?

It's actually the same image seen below, with the colors equalized in PhotoShop. During our walk this morning, we could see what looked to be a sunken pothole in the snow alongside a subdivision street. After kicking away some of the snow, the sewer cover "sunburst" design was visible underneath.

'Tis

2010-02-22T05:54:00.000-08:00

We walked past this charming little historic gallery on Cortez St. during our January visit to Prescott, Arizona. It was not open at the time, or we would have certainly wandered in. The above link takes you to their website where you can see the front view of the building.

Ruffled Feathers

2010-02-20T07:02:00.001-08:00

While hiking on the Broken Hill trails, we spied this hawk perched high up in a tall tree. He was fluffing and preening his feathers in the cold, unfazed by the band of crows judiciously squawking at him from the grove of ash trees next door.

Amaryllis Redux

2010-02-20T07:02:00.000-08:00

I know I've already posted images from my amaryllis plant earlier in the month, but the blooms of the second stalk are even more dazzling than the first, so I just had to share. As previously noted, I ordered a bulb from a girlfriend last fall who bought a package of a dozen from an online source. They were all mixed up and so we had no idea what color they might be. I potted it indoors in early November, and according to the directions, it was supposed to bloom by Christmas. No such luck. It only had a few inch-high leaves & looked like it would never grow.

By mid-January, suddenly several stalks shot up seemingly over night. The first foot-tall stalk had two flowers, but this one has four (!) dinner-plate sized blooms. There is a third stalk in the wings & hopefully, that will be just as spectacular.

SkyWatch Friday: Women and Cats...

2010-02-19T15:21:00.000-08:00

...are entitled to change their minds.

OK - I know, I said I was done posting here. But I just had to share this chilly sunset with jet contrails creating a sunburst design in the distance.

See all SkyWatch Friday entries here.

I'm Over the Hill: Good Bye

2010-02-03T07:14:00.000-08:00

As my masthead says: A year in four seasons. I started this photo diary of the Pewaukee area on January 24th, 2009 - and my goal of posting for (over) a year has been accomplished. I also included images from places we visited during the year, along with pictures of our pets and other objects of interest. It was a wonderful experience which helped me open my eyes to the simple (and sometimes stunning) beauty around us all. I also loved learning about many other new places via City Daily Photo, places I may never get to visit except through the wonders of technology. Thanks to all my "e-friends" who posted their comments and insight.

I will continue to post from time to time on my regular blog: MODERATION, a collection of recipes, nature notes - and anything else that strikes my fancy. Feel free stop by. Best wishes to you all!

The Oaks

2010-02-02T07:15:00.000-08:00

"The Oaks" is a small, but nicely appointed, subdivision near our house. The only issue I have is that they had to cut down a few giant oaks to build the houses there, only to replace them with the twigs below....

Hopefully they will be as mighty as their predecessors one day.

Amaryllis

2010-02-01T07:54:00.001-08:00

A close-up view of the amaryllis now in bloom in our dining room.

Back in October my friend, Juli, ordered a variety of bulbs from a catalog, and so we weren't sure what color this would be. The options were red, white, pink, or candy stripe. The goal was to have them bloom by Christmas. I did everything right (I thought) - but over the holidays, it was still nothing but a little green shoot sticking out about an inch above the pot. Suddenly, at the beginning of January, two flower stalks shot up over a foot high! I was so pleased to finally see the dramatic "Candy-Cane" striped blooms burst open last week. They will last for several weeks, and the other stalk right next to it is also ready to flower. The whole plant can be seen in the image below.

It's so nice to have a bright splash of summery color inside while the world is cold and blustery outside!

New Bank - Old Look

2010-01-31T21:18:00.000-08:00

This bank is located in Delafield, just west of Pewaukee. Lately, national retail centers have been trying to recreate the nostalgic look of the "old days" with their Main Street-style shopping courts, and our area is following suit. The wall lanterns, the reliable clock, and even the name - "Town Bank" - make it seem like a safe place to invest your money.... although I wouldn't bet the farm on it these days.

Winter Sun

2010-01-23T13:02:00.000-08:00

As opposed to yesterday's Arizona sunset sky post, this is what a typical morning looks like around Pewaukee in January. If you click on the image for a larger view and look closely, you can see the faint, tiny outline of the sun trying to break through the clouds in the southeastern horizon of the sky.

SkyWatch Friday: Adieu to Phoenix

2010-01-22T08:16:00.000-08:00

This was the sunset view of the sky after our last full day in Phoenix. (Taken with my cell phone, so I apologize if it's a little blurry.) We will visit Arizona again next winter. For now though, we are back in the midst of winter in Wisconsin. Although it sounds like Flagstaff and much of the rest of Arizona are currently experiencing snowy, stormy and/or flooding conditions. Rough for the present, but probably good for the water reserves.

See all SkyWatch entries here.

Prescott Clock

2010-01-21T18:29:00.000-08:00

A large clock graces the corner of a brick building on Gurley Street in Prescott, AZ. This is one of the last Arizona postings I will do from our recent trip.

Winter Trails

2010-01-20T19:31:00.000-08:00

Another snowy, tree-lined path that Nik and I love to hike. This one borders the Broken Hill subdivision. Just lovely - however, we definitely got our exercise since we were the first visitors to blaze the trail, and the snow was still almost knee-deep in some places. I think I'm investing in some snowshoes for next year...and maybe a little sled for Nik!

Cactus Flowers

2010-01-19T07:32:00.000-08:00

During our visit to Phoenix, we got a few glipses of some cactus flowers while hiking along the North Mountain trails. A very tiny cactus with super-long spikes displayed a pretty pink flower (above) and a barrel cactus (below) had a top crown of yellow flowers,

Below is a panoramic view of Phoenix taken from the trail.

Pan Am Graffiti

2010-01-18T07:51:00.000-08:00

Another box car graffiti image taken while waiting for (a very slow!) train to pass the intersection of Duplainville Road in the City of Pewaukee.

Click the graffiti tag below to see all related images from this blog.

FROG... or Hoarfrost

2010-01-17T10:55:00.000-08:00

Pewaukee temps dipped into the teens last night and a fog rolled in. This morning, we were treated to a Jack Frost show on all the trees and shrubs.

Our local weather-dudes call this "frog" - meaning frozen fog. The technical term is actually "hoarfrost." Frost is to dew as snowflakes are to raindrops. When water vapor condenses into liquid water, you get raindrops and dew. When temperatures drop, water vapor condenses directly into ice, and you get snowflakes and frost. When frost forms as tiny ice crystals covering the ground, it's just called frost.

But sometimes the frost grains grow larger and are called hoarfrost crystals. This often happens when the skies are clear, or covered with high, thin clouds, and there is little or no wind to prevent the settling of foggy moisture.

These ice crystals are so large, that they almost look like the trees have a salty coating on them like pretzels!

Church Upon the Rocks

2010-01-16T08:17:00.000-08:00

Sorry for being a bit remiss in my posting of late, but I've been battling a doozy of a cold this past week, and quite busy with work and dog-sitting duties. (Harriet!) I really need to finish posting photos of our Arizona trip, so today I'm sharing a view of the Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona, AZ. Quite a stunning work of architecture (conceived by female architect Marguerite Bruswig Staude and built in 1956.) Below is the view from across the street.

Jerome Grand Hotel

2010-01-12T19:55:00.000-08:00

During our Arizona trip, we visited Jerome, a quaint little historic mining town built precariously on a hillside. We ate lunch at the Asylum Restaurant, located inside the "Grand Hotel," which was once the local hospital. The highlight of our meal was their squash cream soup, which doesn't sound that good, but was actually quite delicious.

If you look closely at the photo, you can see "Santa" climbing up the balcony railing!

Giant Jesus

2010-01-11T18:42:00.000-08:00

On the open road between Cottonwood and Sedona, Arizona, stands this larger than life statue of Jesus. It's visible for a few miles down the road, and we couldn't figure out what it was until we came upon it standing near a christian church in the middle of nowhere. A little disconcerting, but still, I suppose it's nice to have someone (literally!) watching over us.

Note that he's holding a globe, i.e. "he has the whole world in his hands," as the song goes.

Green Bay Packers vs Arizona Cardinals

2010-01-10T10:28:00.001-08:00

While in Arizona last week, we attended the Packers-Cardinals game where the Pack won handily: 33-7. This week, in the play-offs, they meet again down in Phoenix and Green Bay is expected to repeat their win, although probably not by that stretch. It's amazing how many Packers fans there were in Phoenix, although much of it was probably due to timing. It was, after all, the holidays - when thousands of midwest "snow-birds" flock down south to warmer weather. But there are also lots of midwest transplants living in the southwest, many originally from Wisconsin - hence the Packers allegiance.

I was able to catch a few good crowd shots to demonstrate the rivalry. The cheese-adorned fan above does not exactly represent Green Bay's finest ambassador. However, the banner below illustrates what I've just described.

The commentary represented by this Arizona fan's helmet (below) shows what he hopes happens to the Packers.

And, finally - this cardboard cut-out of Brett Favre, all "gussied" up by some Cardinals fans, depicts what they think of him - (and since this is a PG-rated blog, I can't even show what was going on below the waist...) but let's remember, he's no longer a Packer!

All I can say is: GO PACK!

Moonset Over Thumb Butte

2010-01-09T11:12:00.000-08:00

During our recent visit, we had this early morning view of the moon setting over Thumb Butte from our Prescott, AZ hotel room. If you look closely at the larger image, you can see a dusting of snow on the hills.

SkyWatch Friday: Desert View

2010-01-08T06:26:00.000-08:00

During our recent Arizona trip, we drove down to the Saguaro National Forest near Tucson. The variety and beauty of all the cacti were just amazing. This scene reminded me of something you might see in an old "Western" - I half-expected to see John Wayne galloping into view against the big sky and hazy blue mountains. :-)

See all SkyWatch entries here.