Playing Catch Up

From 8/18/07...

People watching my be my favorite thing. I haven't had a lengthy conversation all day- its been really different. I dressed and headed out the door at my usual time 10am...feels like a good point in the morning to welcome in the general population.

I sought out to find the Farmers Market, and according to my directions I wasn't going to be successful. When I finally turned around once or twice I ran into it...it was such a relief. I was getting frustrated not knowing where I was, or anything else for the matter. I bopped around there for a little bit and enjoyed the offerings of prepared food and gift items. I went from there to the Museum of Tolerance, which unfortunately was going under some extensive renovations. I had to go through security twice, have the trunk in my car checked, metal detector for myself and my bag...I suppose for a Museum it seemed a little much, but being the topic was Tolerance and featured speakers focusing on the topic of hate crimes--the security is justified.

The Museum itself was a little cheesy, due to the fact so much of it I couldn't access because of the renovations. What was stellar though were two people that I was able to hear speak. One was a Holocaust Survivor, and he had an amazing story about his unimaginable experience in the concentration camps to how he ended up in America. After him I was able to hear a former skin head rebel speak about his transformation from being such a hateful and violent man, into the compassionate person he is today. He was actually a guest on the Oprah show, and I saw him on there (thanks TIVO), and it was interesting to hear him speak so candidly about his past violent crime life, and his current struggle with trying to figure out where he fits in society at large.

My absolute highlight of the day however was my visit to The Getty Museum. My goodness, the most breathtaking view of the city are up there. The architecture of the Getty itself was astounding, and I sat for a long while outside just writing while enjoying a Diet Coke. I was able to walk through some exhibitions, and take in some culture- but for me it was much more about the gardens, the view, and the gorgeous weather.

I am in LA for two more days and then I head out to Las Vegas for the 4th exciting part of my time away from home. ;o)