3 welcome distractions from the shutdown

Weary of the state government shutdown? If not, read Shutdown 11 — MPR News is all over it.

But you could use a break, right? We offer the following distractions:

1) How ships are launched

2) Macaque self-portrait

That’s one compelling photo — taken by the monkey who grabbed a camera from a nature photographer. Write a caption in the comments section.

3) Google+

Google+ could be huge – perhaps the first time any oxygen has been sucked from the Facebook room.

“Most critics believe Google+ is gaining popularity online, but at least one study figures Google’s latest social experiment is growing at rates that rival Facebook’s,” says a story on PCWorld.com.

Confused by Google+? Some tips for beginners.