This morning we went on a rather strenuous hike – up and down hills to get to an inland section of the Santa Monica Mountains. I am not a fast hiker – rather plodding actually – because of a long history and experience with falls and broken bones. Every step is conscientiously placed, especially where there is scree and loose rocks. The flowers along the way provided excuses to pause . . .
Anyone living in an arid climate longs for rain. With the rain comes new growth and pungent smells. Little flowers, clusters of flowers, big flowers, grasses, vines, new leaves, flowering trees. This greenery lasts for a very short period, and then fades away to browns, beiges, and greys, and you wait for the next rainy season – if it comes – when it comes.
Puppies in tow, we set out for the open space around Newbury Park, in Ventura County, California. It is part of the Santa Monica mountain range, and there are trails you can hike, up and down, to the beach.
We got here about a little after 5 p.m. – the night of the daylight savings change – and hiking in, the sun was in our eyes. At times, the glare of the sun blinded us on the trail, and I had to shade my eyes to even see. The light through the trees was really lovely, with streaks of light through the foliage.
Once through the little oak groves, we moved onto the grassy flats. In summer, the grasses are dry and brown, and while beautiful, the abundance of green, and the blooming spring flowers, is a balm for the beige-weary soul.
California poppies were out, in small clumps.
Wild pea, too. (I always think of Mendel when I see these!)
To the side of the trail, rocks and lichens, along with clumps of brush and scrub. Everything in the sunset had a glow to it, as only the low angle of the sun can give.
At some point, we had to turn around, or stumble home in the dark. Looking back as we began our final leg, the sun, as they say, slowly sank in the west.
We went for a walk in the mountains this evening . . .
This morning, I was out in the mountains early. Fog was heavy, drifting in and out.
Meetup can be a great way to meet people with similar interests. This morning, I joined up with a hiking-photography group, had a great time, and saw some parts of the Santa Monica Mountains I had not seen before. Here are a few results.
Notice the moon in the upper corner of the picture above?
Ink, Yarn & Beer 