VALENTINE'S DAY OUTING

The past few days we have had some beautiful, warm, spring like weather in the Sacramento area even though it is only mid-February. Lou suggested we take a drive to the University of California Davis campus & go for a walk along their arboretum. So we did!

But first we took a quick side trip to the nearby Stevenson Bridge. Lou always finds us the most interesting sights to see. This one is only 30 miles from home.

The Stevenson Bridge is a local landmark famous for being covered in graffiti. It was built in 1923 & is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The "overhead tie arch" design is one of only three in California.

The bridge spans Putah Creek. Due to its age & condition the state has deemed it "structurally deficient & functionally obsolete" but it is still in use.

After exploring the bridge we drove a few miles to UC Davis where we enjoyed a two mile stroll along the arboretum. I was surprised to see so many plants starting to bloom already which made for some great photo ops. We are planning to visit again in a couple months when the flowers will be in full bloom.

A Southern Magnolia tree was already sprouting with lovely flowers.

This unique flower was the only one like it that we saw & I have no idea what it is.

For whatever reason, this small log was a popular spot for turtles to bask in the sun.

These Red Hot Pokers framed the lake beautifully.

Another gorgeous flower that we weren't able to identify.

This Snowy Egret just stood there in the tree & posed for us. 

The arboretum is divided into areas as you walk along paths by the creek & lakes. These cactus were surrounded by small purple flowers in the desert area.

These Prickly Pear Cactus were growing up the side of the hill.

A bridge crossing the creek is lined with these decorated locks. They are called "love locks" which couples lock to a bridge, fence or gate to symbolize their love. Apparently, they are popular all over the world.