Hi, We planted drought tolerant plants in the front yard about 8 years ago. They didn't look very good when they were small, but have filled in nicely. They get no water from us and only need to be trimmed back about twice a year. There are brick paths running through them. Our city might have codes regarding this stuff, but we weren't even aware that it could be an issue. Some cities don't care what you do on your own property unless it creates a real problem. The city inspector was here in November for our pool removal permit, and he didn't mention it. I'm in Walnut, near Pomona. Buddyben I agree with you that the Glendale yard looked bad in the picture, but have to think that it was early in the job. Because most landscapes are built around a large patch of grass, drought tolerant plants take more planning, experimenting, a little more getting used to and they're not for everyone. Most people wouldn't want huge fines or criminal charges brought against anyone for having a yard that they thought was ugly. Spreading mulch probably wouldn't have helped the situation, because mulch wouldn't be 'green'. Putting up any sign could lead to yet another code violation. Wonder what the heck peeling paint on some windows had to do with the yard? John and Ken (KFI) played audio from the city council meeting regarding the huge tree fine, and it was clear that these guys with their pompous and arrogant attitudes could care less how an ordinary citizen that they supposedly represent would come up with $350K to pay their petty fine for trees that were not harmed. What is the criminal code for an ugly yard, lol? HeirloomK, I didn't think that Buena Park would have the same kind of problems. It takes only one person to cause all sorts of problems for you. A relative built a shed in Duarte by himself (he's a carpenter) and one city guy hounded him and made all kinds of accusations and threats. When he took off work to go to city hall, they said that the shed was fine and to just ignore the guy who was bugging him. Have you posted pics of your yard on any of these forums? It would be fun to see 'the yard worthy of handcuffs'. Linda

History is so much more interesting to me when it involves a person's story. We watched Lisa's story on Friday evening. What an interesting and sad time in history. Thank you for telling us about HULU. I just watched Sara Jessica Parker and Emmet Smith's stories. I grew up just 5 miles from Salem Ma and also have an ancestor who was accused of being a witch. While researching my family tree I found that Lucy Smith was pardoned by the Governor of Massachusetts (who is also related, but I haven't discovered how, although my Dad was named for him). As a child I was told she was hung but the documentation proves otherwise.

Who do You Think You Are is one of my favorite shows! I wish the average Joe would have all that "extra" help if they'd go to all those libraries and county offices, etc. My family is aware that our grandfather was orphaned at age 2 and lived with another family (whose name we have). But when we found the adoption papers a few years ago we saw that they adopted him at age 17 1/2. We wonder why, or for what reason would they wait for until he was almost an adult?

hmmmm....tough, but good question kay.... even though I don't believe in astrology, as a Leo, I do see myself as brash and overconfident(outsiders might see it as cocky and be turned away...so what?) I think of myself as a person that faces things up front and just deals with them....whether they are good or bad results doesn't matter, you just have to be satisfied that you made the wise decision and move on. If I dwelled on every mistake that I have made, I'd be living in a cave....as it is, I tread carefully and hope I never step on thin ice ever again. As far as greater beings controlling my life, I agree...but I believe I am a deist by all definition. Thinking logically might send me to hell but my only regret will be that the beer will be warm. :)