365/Day 335

Birds Welcome You to City Hall~~

The pretty fountain in front of the Santa Monica City Hall building is a favorite of the seagulls. They are always there, bathing, drinking, goofing around. But just before sunset they ALL fly together towards the ocean. I understand most seagulls sleep on the water, so that’s them saying “bed time!”

Weekly Photo Challenge: Ornate

If you want to see “Ornate,” you needn’t go any further than Paris’ 9th arrondissement, on the city’s Right Bank. Once there, make a quick (or long) stop at the famous Galleries Lafayette to appreciate its ornate gold decorated balconies and magnificent stained glass ceiling. From there, take a short walk to one of the most opulent buildings in Paris, the Opera Hose (L’Opera). Commissioned by Napoleon III, it was created by Charles Garnier in the popular Beaux Arts style of the time with heavy glass chandeliers, sweeping marble staircases and gilt decorations.  All very ornate!