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Murphy Ranch – Old Nazi Compound in the Santa Monica Mountains
Did you know there is an old Nazi sympathizer compound hidden away in the Santa Monica Mountains? (Or at least the start of what was to be a Nazi sympathizer compound.) Accessible via a moderately rated 3.4-mile hike in Rustic Canyon, Murphy's Ranch is a peek into some of the bizarre histories of LA.
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I Finally Went Camping at Joshua Tree
It finally happened! While it took me nearly thirty years to make it out to Joshua Tree for the first time, two years after my initial visit I fulfilled my dream of camping under those big goofy whimsical trees. And it was as magical as I had imagined.
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Get in the Spooky Mood with Norco’s Pumpkin Rock Hike
Halloween may be less than a week away, but if you live in Southern California and are looking for a unique way to celebrate this spooky season, the Pumpkin Rock Hike in Norco may be perfect for you! I’ve done this hike twice now since moving back to California, right around my first Halloween back, and once this past weekend. The hike is short, just around a mile round trip, and despite the incline (depending on the route you chose) and some lose rock/gravel, the hike is pretty doable by most people in relative shape. And this hike is for the most part family-friendly, as long as no one has…
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I Went Back In The Ocean For The First Time Since Leaving Hawaii
Yes, known for surfing there are beaches that have some pretty big waves, but it varies throughout the year and there are certain beaches that are almost always relatively calm or at least don't have the kind of waves that will knock you over. On top of that the water is clear and the sand is soft. Most the beaches in Hawaii have crystal clear waters and I could see down to the floor even once I swam out far enough I could no longer reach the sea floor. And, best of all, the water in Hawaii is so warm, all year round in comparison to Southern California. Living in…
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Hot Chickz – L.A. Hot Chicken, Hidden Gem in La Puente
As I write this I have eaten at Hot Chickz, three times, twice in one weekend. I have tried both versions of their sandwiches, their chicken sandwich (served on a bun) and their Hot Chick Sandwich (served on a roll). I have tried two different spice levels "Just a Kick" (mild) and "Feelin' It" (medium). Although I was able to eat the medium it was painful and I've decided to stick with their mild. I have also tried their Hot Chick Fries (everything you get on a Hot Chick Sandwich, chicken, coleslaw, pickles, and sauce, on top of fries), their mac and cheese, and a pepperoni pizza.
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I Finally Made it to Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree was one of my dad's favorite places, right along with the High Sierra and the Grand Teton. I grew up hearing him talk about this strange land in the desert, but despite it being only about two hours away from where I grew up I never had the pleasure of experiencing it with him.
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Quarantine Day 68-70: 7 Things I Learned in 70 Days
Today marks 70 days of self isolation. 70 days since I was last at work. 70 days since I was last able to have any sort of real social gathering. 70 days since I have been able to visit my mom. It has been 70 days of ups and downs, good days, bad days, productive days and lazy days. I've had days where I've really struggled, days where it was hard to get out of bed, but lately, I have found myself in a really good place. I have used this time of isolation to work on projects and catch up on some entertainment. I've also used this time to…
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The Hat
In N Out. When you think of Southern California fast food, In N Out is what comes to mind. Whether you have never been to one or you spent your entire life in SoCal, you just can't help it; Whether you know better or not, In N Out is what always comes to mind when you think Southern California burger joint. But, there is another SoCal based local favorite that, even though it's loved by many, seems to always be forgotten. The Hat.
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Colima Burgers
And then there is Colima Burgers. And as cheesy and dramatic as it sounds, I mean this will all sincerity, since coming back to California, walking into Colima Burgers has felt like coming home each and every time. Colima Burgers is a family run greasy spoon that I have gone to all my life.
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Apple Picking Adventures
Fall is my favorite season, in theory. I love the changing leaves and the chill in the air. There is nothing I enjoy more than wrapping myself up in blanket on cool nights. I think I'm much cuter in sweaters, scarves, tights and boots, than in bikinis, shorts, and tank tops. And, I can start breaking out the eggnog (pumpkin spice can kiss my ass). But, I live in Southern California and that means my fall season is really more of a faux fall season. (Don't get me wrong its way more fall like here than it was in Hawaii, but compared to the majority of the country, it's barely…
