Stop & Stare - "Sunburst", Dale Chihuly, Minneapolis Institute of Art, Minneapolis, MN

You can't help but notice this sculpture/chandelier hanging from the foyer in the MIA entrance. I feel like I've seen similiar works in other museums around the country. I finally took the time to look a little closer and get some information on the artist.

 

This piece, like all his work, is really a sight to behold. It looks lighter than air, but as noted below, is made completely of glass and weighs more than a ton. Kind of crazy, no?

 

Out of doors at the MIA

The first day of Spring brought sun and above freezing temps. Strong start, time for some pics..,

Nothing Bundt Cakes, Omaha, NE

Could not have gotten free mini-bundt coupons to a better place. We sampled small bundt cakes of lemon, red velvet, and carrot. I think my fave was red velvet. I wished the carrot had some texture in it (carrot bits, nuts?) rather than just smooth batter. The lemon was solid. We all agreed we made a huge mistake by not trying something in the chocolate family, but not to worry, we'll be back. 

Iowa sunrises rarely disappoint.

License Plate Shenanigans

Seems like a perfectly normal plate to take a pic of if your initials are "mk"...

I don't know what the "Thanx" is for, but the rest made sense upon closer inspection...

Ah well. Maybe not so appropriate for my initials after all. 

Dixie Quicks, Council Bluffs, IA

High time I visited this well-regarded, funky place, and it did not disappoint. Very busy place, but seating time with reservation and service was good.

The menu is a little unique/goofy as there are no menus, just a big chalkboard. Side step social norms? Ok, I'll play along. I found what I wanted pretty quick anyways. 

The Bloody Mary was easy to find and spicy enough to satisfy any edible heat seekers. 

The Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs hit the spot. The grits were a bit watery and flavorless, but that's kind of how grits are. Other than that small hiccup, the trip was worth the wait and I would go back at any time. 

Omaha Firsts

When in Rome...

Never had a lime version, it's alright...more flavor than the original I spose. 

UNO Hockey at the Century Link in Omaha. 

This made up for the can of lime-flavored beer. Great taps and bottles from beer all over the world, nice people too. 

I guess everything comes in 25oz. "American" cans now...even Japanese beers. 

Did not disappoint. 

Damn good cakes...and who doesn't like a business name with a pun?