i took a much needed break over the weekend and went to stay in topanga, my favorite local getaway. nestled int he santa monica mountains, this canyon is filled with funky custom built homes dotting the hills and taking a walk up and down the winding roads is a feast to the eyes. i have never seen so many different plants and trees. the squirrels are everywhere, playing right before your eyes. then there's that sense of peace at night, quiet and the sky with pristine stars, the smell of herbs and crackling woods. only one and a half days but it was heaven for my soul.