Tongva Park

Tongva Park in Santa Monica opened last year; I finally made a visit two weekends ago.

Santa Monica was crowded that day, but not the park. Perhaps people haven't totally taken ownership of it. I also notice that public space in LA seems to be most active only when it is programmed-- with concerts, food, and other events, making a critical mass of people.


The chasmanthe was in full bloom and looked great backlit.

Chasmanthe and the dancing flower heads of Pennisetum spathiolatum:

The design concept refers to an arroyo, or seasonal stream, that used to exist on this site. The curving, sand-colored forms reminded me mostly of dunes.

One of two overlooks towards the ocean and Santa Monica Pier:

The oceanside entrance-- in the background you can see what must be the busiest corner in Santa Monica, leading to and from the Pier. I thought I'd stroll that way but was totally put off by the human tide!

Ciclavia

This time, the Ciclavia route was 6 miles of Wilshire Blvd, from LACMA east into downtown. I was excited to be so close (2 blocks) from the route, and to see the street scene I know well be completely transformed! LACMA is on the left here:

Heading into MacArthur Park near downtown, and my favorite moment of the ride, coasting downhill through the park

Heading back west

At the La Brea Tar Pits (which I learned translates to "the the tar tar pits")

garden tour

Wow, it's been awhile!

I spent a lovely Saturday morning touring some of the gardens on the Theodore Payne Foundation garden tour weekend. The weather was gorgeous, and I felt kind of like I was at summer camp with a bunch of other native plant enthusiasts. At the peak of bloom, these plants and gardens were inspiring. This first garden, in particular, was clearly the result of great imagination and dedication. I have never seen so many happy bees, feasting on all these native plants! There were also goldfinches mobbing a feeder and on the sages as well.

One of my favorite plants on the tour was this gorgeous hybrid native sage, Salvia 'Desperado'

White sage in bloom