Serenity now

So I went to Japan this weekend...psst. No I didn't. Yes that is in Los Angeles, no it is not in Little Tokyo. It's in Bel Air! It's the UCLA Hannah Carter Japanese Garden. Who knew this oasis was hidden in the hills.

While UCLA is a four letter word to me (heh), my mom has been wanting to go. Her furlough fridays have become little field trips about town.

It's a weird set up though, you make a reservation and pull into this non-descript driveway. There is no one there meet you, you just go and take your tour and when the hour is up, you leave. Odd. Yet peaceful.

The garden is way bigger than you'd expect, with winding terraces and pathways. No kids were allowed and O.G. did not want to come with us. I can see why since there were way too many unsteady walking areas. Plus she's "been there." Apparently she can only do things once.

Inspired by the gardens of Kyoto there is a garden house, bridges, antique stone, it's all very well planned out. It's hard to believe that this used to be a PRIVATELY owned garden. Man, it would be lovely to sit out here as your backyard, all day long.

It was incredibly breathtaking. I love going up high and looking out over the city. However, lest you forget you are in Bel Air, you just have to look to your left and see the new 50,000 sq ft mansion being built. sigh. Oh well, so much for serenity.