So I was checking the mail a couple of minutes ago, and happened to notice this reddish looking star in the sky… except it wasn’t twinkling, so I knew it wasn’t a star, so I figured perhaps a plane or helicopter, when it remained stationary without blinking I realized it was a planet. Checking the star charts online, I discovered it was Mars. Busted out the camera, and captured this stunning image of the red planet. Enjoy!
and a further zoomed in one, it’s an angry little planet isn’t it?
So yesterday, my bff and I went on a rather daunting hike, Kuli’ou’ou Ridge. It starts off easily enough, set under the shade of the multiple trees, it’s nice being out of the sun… multiple switchbacks which makes for a slow incline to start, but once you reach the picnic tables (yes there’s a roofed picnic area) the hike goes from fancy free to the seventh level of hell.
The remainder of the hike is a massive incline up the mountain side, mostly stairs. You’re above the level of the trees, at this point most of the greenery is shrubs offering no respite from the blazing sun. At this point you’re high enough to walk through and sometimes above a few clouds.
But, if you can tough it out (it’s about 2.25 miles to the top) the view is spectacular and absolutely worth the hike.
The view from the top. Waimanalo side.
The Hawaii Kai side.
Absolutely stunning, and absolutely worth it. Just a few words of advice though, if you decide to do this hike, I suggest starting relatively early, that way when you’ve reached the second half (aka the seventh level of hell) it won’t be too hot under the blazing Hawaiian sun. Also, I recommend bringing water, and lots of it. While you’re doing the first half, although you’ll be protected front he sun under the shade of the lovely trees, it does get quite muggy, and humid, which leads to muddy bits and mosquitos. I recommend good shoes and mosquito repellent. Also, sunscreen.
It should also be mentioned that it is a hunting area. You should check the mailbox at the start of the trail to see if there are any hunters in the area as a precaution. I usually tend to hike during the week, so I haven’t had to share the trail with any of them, however there were a handful of hunters that checked in over the weekend. There are two trails, a valley and a ridge trail, and I think that most of the hunters stick to the valley trail as I’ve never seen any wildlife or game of any kind on the ridge hike.
Until next time my lovelies! Stay classy!
So, while I was in LA, I made sure to visit one of my favorite places in the city. The J. Paul Getty Center in Brentwood, near UCLA. Seriously, the architecture, gardens, and art that’s housed there make is such a fascinating place to visit. I discover something new every time I go. It’s just such a peaceful escape from the world. That and admission is free which is always a major plus (although I feel the need to point out that parking has gone from $5 to $15) but it’s a small price to pay for the tranquil setting and mass collection of some pretty awesome art. Such as Vincent van Gogh’s Irises.
I had to take some up close photos of the brush strokes, they’re exquisite! I sat on the cushioned seat simply staring at this masterpiece for what seemed like hours, just lost in the majesty of it all. Made me want to return to Florence, Italy, where I got to stand in the presence of Michaelangelo’s David, which is truly something to behold.
They also have some full room recreations of victorian era France, with gorgeous antiques chandeliers and writing tables.
Talk about stunning, they just don’t make houses/decorate rooms like they used to. Those doors and the details of the walls are beautiful. The moulding, breathtaking. Really something that must be seen in person to fully appreciate.
The Getty has more than just paintings, and antique rooms, they have a collection of stunning statues, my favorite of which is the Goddess Athena. Carved in marble and absolutely gorgeous.
Athena’s always been my favorite Goddess, and to see her rendered so beautifully was a treat.
One of my other favorite things in the museum is the antique microscope from the 1770’s I believe, absolutely fascinating, and green! My second favorite color, (purple is my favorite in case you were wondering). Can you imagine the things that microscope has witnessed? What breakthroughs it might have discovered? Amazing.
Those are just a few of the amazing collections the Getty has on display. And if the art wasn’t enough to draw you in, take a look at the building and the gardens.
Gorgeous right?
So do yourself a favor and the next time you’re in LA, make sure you take the time to visit the J. Paul Getty Center. I should also mention that there is a Getty Villa out in Malibu, which I’ve heard is also lovely however I have yet to visit. It’s on my list for the next time I’m in LA. The Malibu location requires reservations, so if you want to go to the Getty Villa, make sure you go online and book reservations first! (Like the Getty Center, the Villa is also free, however there is a parking charge and I believe it’s the same as the Getty $15).
Until my next entry, health and happiness to you all!
getting2knowl 