Franklin Avenue: bird poop

Sunday, June 7, 2020

The Circle of Life Comes to Our Front Door

A few months ago, I hung a decorative candle from a hook above our side door. Didn't think much of it -- it was more a way to declutter our house, by hanging it outside. But then, we noticed how birds had taken a liking to it. After that, grass and twigs started poking out from the top of it. Turns out the hanging candle was the perfect spot for one bird's nest. Yesterday, I peered inside: And witnessed three baby chicks inside. The circle of life, indeed.

And here's the hanging candle. (I could do without the bird poop that now litters our steps below, but whaddyuh gonna do.)

Monday, March 18, 2013

Franklin Avenue Visits the Los Angeles County Arboretum

For several years we held a membership to the Huntington Library and Gardens (thanks to one of the best Groupons we ever bought), but at a point last year we realized we just weren't going enough to justify our investment. Meanwhile, we were probably visiting the Descanso Gardens (closer to us) more often. When Maria discovered that a membership to the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Gardens in Arcadia also covered entrance to Descanso, we were sold.

We'd visited the Arboretum in the past to attend California Philharmonic concerts, but have now spent some time exploring the gardens themselves. The kids get a kick out of the peacocks roaming the grounds; I like the Queen Anne cottage, as seen at the start of each episode of "Fantasy Island."

But there's a downside to all those birds roaming the grounds: All that bird poop. Watch out. It's everywhere on the yards. I was told that a massive cleanup takes place every single morning -- but I noticed plenty of it by the afternoon. Watch where you walk.

Also on the grounds: The old Santa Anita train depot, now open for tours on the weekends. Also, the Peacock Cafe -- fine if you're hungry, but pretty mediocre food.

Here are some pics from an afternoon at the Arboretrum: