The focus of the Pink Bragade’s May walk was all about the green. From our start along the greens of the Arroyo Seco Golf Course and meandering through the green tree-lined river walk to a tour of homes designed by the famous architectural brother team of Green & Green. And as a final top off of green – a fresh leaf of basil in a cocktail at lunch….green was the color of the day.

This was our second trip along the Arroyo Seco river walk, however, we changed things up a bit by leaving the trail and heading up to stroll through the beautiful homes that look over the ravine. This route added so much to the journey as we walked by some of the most exquisite landscaping and architecture – each home unique in its design and beauty.  The streets were tree lined with specimens that had made this area their home certainly for decades. Luckily we had our two knowledgeable garden and arbor enthusiasts, Lisa and Lynne with us to help figure out some of the varieties of trees and plants.

To add miles to the day – much to Wendy’s surprise (she thought this was going to be a seven mile day as the first introduction back to the walking schedule after injuring her ankle) – we took a three mile loop around the Rose Bowl. Although it was a bit on the crowded side, it was fun to see so many people getting out and enjoying this stunningly clear and blue spring day.

On the way back, we passed by the famous Gamble House, designed by those two creative Green brothers.  We popped in the bookstore to buy a map of other Green & Green homes so Leanne and Carol didn’t have to continue to read the information on their phone screens.  The path took us along the way we had come, but there still was so much to see.  And the return journey went pretty quickly.  The photo of the day came from this phase of the day.  I have to put it here in full format – Leanne snapped this with her iPhone. 🙂

For our lunch, a mandatory component of each and every walk, Leanne chose Cafe Santorini in downtown Pasadena. It turned out to be the perfect spot – something for everyone’s palette with a Mediterranean twist. We were really happy to have Linda join us. So glad she made the trip to Pasadena!! The drinks were excellent and I think we had the best waiter of all our luncheon spots to date.

Chalk up 11.5 miles and another awesome Pink Bragade adventure on the countdown to San Francisco.