WINTER IN McKINLEY PARK

Halfway through the Winter Olympics, this past Sunday was a beautiful sunny morning so we decided to take a walk around McKinley Park in downtown Sacramento before the serious couch potato time started.

Not too much was blooming yet but what we did see was gorgeous! It should be amazing in another month or two.

This is the entrance to the Rose Garden. Of course, nothing was in bloom in February but it should be spectacular once they all begin to blossom.

From what we were able to determine this is a Saucer Magnolia tree that blooms in February.

A close up of the Saucer Magnolia blossoms. Each flower is 3 - 5 inches across & were really gorgeous.

Camelias are popular in Sacramento. The trees & bushes were in full bloom.

The foliage around the lake is probably a month or two away from filling in but it was still a lovely site. The ducks, geese & turtles certainly enjoyed it!

This tree actually had a lot of white blossoms on it but they are hard to see in the shade.

The turtles were certainly enjoying sunning themselves on the rock wall along the island.

A couple of Canadian Geese made for a serene scene with their reflections.

These two little creatures didn't seem to mind posing for us to grab a couple of close up shots while they enjoyed the warm winter morning just like we did.

This squirrel was content to hang on to the tree head down while we snapped his picture.

This colorful turtle was happy to soak up some rays, too.

Lots of little two legged "critters" were enjoying the colorful playground with their parents. The squeals of "Push me, push me!" were heard everywhere.

This playground was burned down a few years ago but the city & residents have restored it to a great place for kids.