Monthly Archives: July 2005

What’s he reading? I haven’t actually stopped by to look and see if
anything is “written” on the cover of his bronze book. What could be
more appropriate as a landmark for the Monrovia library than Mark
Twain seemingly inviting you to sit down with him for a good story? I
always do a double-take when I walk past. He just seems so real from
the corner of my eye…!

He seems to be saying, “How long do I have to wait here before you
decide where to put me?” Looks as if the owners painted his platform
to match the house. It’s the first pink vest I’ve spotted! And he seems to have some leather bits wrapped around his ankles. I just love his sassy pose!

In other news, Monrovia seems to have a superfluosity of hair salons as well. They don’t make for as quirky of picture-taking, however.

Monrovian lawn jockeys are probably the only ones dressed up in this
scorching weather we’ve been having! When it gets to be too much I
take refuge in the Krikorian theater and watch movies, er, a movie.
Unfortunately, the heat brings out not only ennui, but tempers and
late night uglies. Just last week there was a mugging nearby, and
certain undesirables take advantage of open windows at night-
time. It is relatively safe here, but no place is perfect…

I just love how Monrovians have embraced the lawn jockey tradition.
This one, holding his ring firmly, seems to say, “Let me take your
steed and watch over it whilst you enjoy your stay at this noble
palace.” The history of said lawn jockey is disputed, but one belief
is that they were used to help African Americans escape slavery by
guiding them to safe homes along the Underground Railroad. Apparently
green ribbons were tied to their arms to indicate safety and red ones
meant to keep moving. The lawn jockey is also said to originate from
the statue of the black groomsman in the Old South. Order your own
jockey here!

This adorable 7-week old shepherd mix puppy is available for adoption
through VCA Santa Anita animal hospital. So are a few of his brothers
and sisters! He is getting dewormed and all cleaned up for you!
Please call Gary White DVM at the hospital if interested. Tel:
626-359-3281.

One way to cover bad stucco is to plant Boston Ivy. Creeping fig is
nice also but it’s a much slower grower. This house has Boston Ivy on
this side and it’s quite lovely and gives it an “old world” stately
feeling. Besides, the more plants and trees you have, the cleaner air
you are breathing, as plants “exhale” oxygen. I’d love to be gazing
out one of the upper windows while taking a deep breath. The Boston
Ivy also turns lovely amber and red shades in the fall. A treat for
the eyes!

Gosh, how sweet and clean does this place look? I wonder if the
owners are Swiss? I love the little bump in the roof, and the stripes
under the eaves. The tiny windows on either side of the door are
unusual also. All in all a pleasant place to gaze upon….

You want it when!!?!