California Dreaming on Such a Portland Day

Portland is cold and wet now. So it's time to roll out the sunny, dry California pictures!

This terrific mid-century garden furniture is at my brother- and sister-in-law's home in warm, sunny Altadena, California. We visited in early November, and I posted earlier about a walk I took there.

I have always enjoyed their beautiful paved seating area, below, with its tile-accented fountain. It's at the back of their lot where mature Engelmann oaks keep the air cool and shady.

Although it was November, this abutilon was still blooming a beautiful rose color.

 I loved the pots of Spanish lavender in the garden.

Here's a detail of the fountain's pool: the stacked pavers help create the perfect sound as the water falls into the pool. The sea creatures help create the right sense of fun!

 The fountain at night. It's the perfect setting for a martini or a glass of wine.
This is an Engelmann oak (quercus engelmannii), also called a Pasadena oak. It resembles the much-loved California live oak, but has a very narrow range in and around Pasadena.

A final view looking back to the house through the Engelmann oaks from the patio. The dark tree foliage and branches made a wonderful pattern against the sky.