Mystery Plant

Sorry for taking Monday off. Even though Labor Day is not recognized as a holiday here I chose to honor the American tradition.

I have yet to hear from anyone who could identify the mystery memorial from our Berlin trip so thought I would pose a horticultural question today.

On the left is a picture of a thorny, bush-like plant found along the boulevard near the river. They were not "volunteer" plants since there were many of them planted within a landscaped area. They are about three feet in height. The smaller fruit (you can almost make it out in the back of the picture) resemble raspberries; however, the larger fruit looks almost like a tomato - similar in size to a large cherry tomato. The thorns really throw me for a loop and I can't imagine any landscaper in their right mind planting vegetables/fruits alongside a busy road. I'm stumped...any takers???

Craig made it home safely and is fighting his jet lag admirably. Heck, he goes to work sick so why would jet lag affect him, right? I'm probably having a harder time breaking all the bad eating and bedtime habits I established while he was gone. I actually finished two loads of laundry and made a trip to the post office already today!!!

Speaking of the post office...I came up with a new method to purchase stamps. I made a postcard and glued samples of the stamps I wished to purchase. I jot down - in pencil do so I can use it over and over - the number of stamps I want to buy and add a grand total of my purchase (I was once told unsuspecting foreigners might be short-changed). It worked like a charm!!! In the past I used a scrap of paper with a handwritten note. I was always fearful they thought I was robbing the place - but no more!!!

Lines in the post office are unique. The majority of folks stand in one line waiting for the next postal worker available; however, there are always those rebels who go and stand directly in front of a window in lieu of waiting in line. What amazes me is nobody even says a word!!! My Midwest, Lutheran upbringing has taught me to follow all rules, even when others break them. Or maybe I fear being scolded in Polish!!! It can be intimidating. I went to the farmer's market about a month ago and was scolded for scooping my own strawberries! GASP...I got so worked up that I paid for all my purchases and left the strawberries behind!!! She flagged me down and laughed (presumably at me)!

You may have noticed I've started adding a picture to each of my blogs. I got to thinking that by adding pictures from my day-to-day activities you might get an idea of life around these parts. I carry my camera with me all the time and try to be somewhat avant garde in my pictures. I want to be like Craig when I grow up (he rocks when it comes to taking great pictures)!

I've now figured out how to add music to my slide shows so may be tempted to put something out here in the near future. Most likely when I don't want to do laundry....!!!

Erica - love you and hope you are feeling better!