Out and About: Lake Arrowhead

I have a confession- I don't really like living in southern California. I know it's paradise to many, but I'm having a really hard time getting used to the heat and the traffic and the overall culture here. I still kind of want to cry (and sometimes do) several times a week- it's been that difficult of a transition.

That said, I am trying to find things to love about it and to that end, the mister and I have been making more of an effort to get out and explore, not just LA, but the whole region. A few weeks ago we took a day trip to Lake Arrowhead- up in the mountains about an hour away from our house.





We brought along a cold fried chicken picnic (my favorite picnic food!), and I, of course, could not resist turning it into a little practice 'styled shoot' with some fun vintage props. The mister even took a turn behind the camera- that last photo of me is one of his- not too shabby right?









After lunch we went on a little nature walk on a trail along some stands of Sequoias. We spotted a few creatures, and enjoyed the peace and quiet of the forest. In the morning as we drove up the mountain I thought about how I would love to have a feather to add to a little photo display, and I actually found one- a little extra dose of joy.

It may not be the Pacific Northwest, but I did enjoy our time around Lake Arrowhead. Next weekend, for my birthday, we're heading on a camping trip near Santa Barbara and 'm looking forward to finding more things to love about SoCal.

What do you love about where you live? Is it easy to love your city or a challenge? I'd enjoy hearing your stories!