Spring has Sprung in Santa Barbara

It’s only early March, but spring has already arrived in Santa Barbara. Took a hike through their lovely Botanical Gardens, and the wildflowers were blooming. Headed down the path to my favorite redwood section. These towering giants truly intrigue my mind and heal my soul.

Later, headed to the main shopping district on State Street. Enjoyed a delicious meal at Pascucci before viewing a documentary film on the history of organic farming, Evolution of Organic, created by Mark Kitchell and narrated by Frances McDormand. Kitchell was on hand at the Marjorie Luke Theatre amidst a roomful of concerned environmentalists and local farmers. Whatever the season, there’s always something fascinating happening in my favorite town.

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Just Another Glorious Day in Malibu at the Beach

Spent the day in Malibu at County Line. Quick lunch overlooking the sea at iconic biker hangout, Neptune’s Net. On the weekends, throngs of bikers make their way along the winding coast for brunch. During the week, there are more locals and a few tourists. Headed across Pacific Coast Highway to watch the daring Kite Surfers on another gloriously sunny, foggy, windy Malibu day.

A Slice of Heaven above Malibu

In search of wildflowers, I found a little slice of heaven. Discovered another hike along Zuma Ridge Trail up a mountain with birds-eye views of Malibu and the ocean. Keep driving up Busch Drive to a little parking lot. Just amazing!

 

Spring Solstice Canyon Hike

Took a lovely hike at Solstice Canyon off Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. Discovered lots of great spots since moving here last year. It’s hard to leave! Check this one out if you’re in town. Best to go during the week, when parking will be easier. Bring water. There’s a small falls at the end, but it’s the journey that counts. Happy hiking!

26 Miles Across the Sea

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Just spent a few days on Catalina Island, 26 miles from the mainland of Southern California, or as the locals call it, “overtown.” Hadn’t been there in nearly a decade, but nothing’s changed much. Still life at a slower pace, except on cruise ship days, when hungry voyagers roam the island in search of food, … Continue reading →

18th Annual Chumash Day Powwow

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Attended the 18th annual Chumash Day Powwow last weekend in Malibu, California. Beautiful costumes and intriguing dances and rituals. Great way to get a glimpse of Native American culture.

Award-Winning Night at Santa Barbara International Film Festival

Spent a great night at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival directors panel, featuring all five of this year’s Academy Award nominated directors – Lenny Abrahamson (ROOM), Alejandro G. Iñárritu (THE REVENANT), Tom McCarthy (SPOTLIGHT), Adam McKay (THE BIG SHORT), and George Miller (MAD MAX: FURY ROAD). All were awarded Outstanding Directors of the Year. Last night, in my opinion, funniest award goes to McKay, most humble to Miller, and most intense to Iñárritu. Festival continues through February 13, 2016. Check it all out at http://sbiff.org.