Botanical Bonanza

My day was supposed to start with a couple of hours spent taking pictures at the Model Railroad Museum in Balboa Park. Found out when I got there that they opened an hour later than I expected. So I decided to mosey across the El Prado, passed the Lily Pond, and on over to the Botanical Building thinking I could try to squeeze out a few shots there while waiting for the museum to open. Ended up staying there for over an hour getting shots of the all the incredible orchids they had on display. Luckily I had brought my macro lens with me for the miniature railroad details later. Also got some interior shots of the fantastic spiderweb-like lath work that makes up the building’s roof. And I got to pet a super cute ten-month old Golden Doodle named Pansy who was incredibly friendly and playful. I also spent a little time inside the Sculpture Court and Garden, taking shots of some of the original statues that graced the old exposition buildings.

Since by now it was so close to noon I decided to have lunch before heading to the museum. I knew that The Village Grill over by the Natural History Museum had a pretty good tuna melt so I walked over there. I stood in line and secretly laughed as person after person was getting frustrated by how many things the eatery was out of. No hot dogs, no potato salad, no other stuff. When I got to the window and placed my order the Hispanic girl with the thick eyeliner told me they were out of tuna. I wasn’t secretly laughing any more. I asked for the turkey melt. Sorry, no turkey. I looked around to see if Heather was standing somewhere near me. Ended up ordering a simple, plain grilled cheese sandwich with chips and a drink. It was good to sit and eat, but boy was that sandwich bland and boring. As I ate I saw a small wiener dog stroll by with wheels for back legs. It didn’t seem to mind one bit and had no trouble getting around. After lunch I walked over to the boundary fence that separates Balboa Park from the Zoo. I could see the sloth enclosure just on the other side. Turned around and discovered a giant fig tree with gigantic roots growing above ground just behind the Botanical Building. Filled the rest of my memory card with a few pictures of that tree with its incredible root system. My time-filler morning turned out to be quite productive and fulfilling.

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