Flighty Visitors

A couple days ago we had some unexpected guests.

Sadly, they didn't stay very long.  Hoping to attract more feathered friends, we put out some delicious treats.
    

Our bountiful bird buffet

Soon enough, our guests returned.  Unaccustomed to my presence, many took off before I could take their photos.  Here's one guest that wasn't quite so camera shy.

Is it me or is he posing?

Cat huts

A cat colony lives in the empty lot adjacent to our apartment complex.  With the recent snowy weather, hubby and I worry about these feral felines' fate. 

How will they stay warm in this weather?

Luckily for the cats, many kindhearted neighbors have reached out to help.  Some constantly put out tasty treats.

Monday's Special:  Stinky sardines

Those who are a bit more crafty designed and assembled small "cat huts."  Built out of old pet carriers and cardboard boxes these units are insulated with straw and old blankets.

One hut in the cat complex

We're all hoping that they'll stay warm this winter.

Hurrah for The Curragh

Today we ate at the Curragh Irish Pub.  This place offers yummy food, folksy music, and friendly waitstaff.  Here are some photos of decor details:

Welcome inside

Knock, Knock.  Horse there?

Pull up a chair

Christmas wreath

Window details

Guinness gal poster

Our ride home

Fortune Cookie Haiku

After Chinese Food

Sealed tight in a plastic bag

Crunchy, golden treat

Two lovely fortunes from us to you

Reinventing the potato

Did you know that Mr. Potato Head first started off as a bunch of face and body parts that children stuck into real potatoes?  (To see this picture and others, click here.)  It was only later that Mr. Potato Head acquired his iconic plastic body.

Inspired by this classic toy, I created my own fruit and vegetable friends.

Meet Richie Raab.

Unfortunately, he met an untimely death at dinner.  Mwah ha ha ha.

Nevermind.  Here are best gal pals Orangina Bunny and Katie Kale.

Product testing time.  I don't have any children, so Charlie will have to do.

Which toy will he like best?

Katie Kale is the winner!  (And sadly, also the snack.)

Back to the drawing board.