I now have a sweet tan line across my forehead thanks to this bad azz bandana... thumbs up!

I went for this hike on Wednesday, Feb. 22 with my buddy, Charles. It was the first time out for my brand spankin' new, rippin' ass Columbia hikin' boots! They were sweet! I couldn't believe the difference some grip made in cutting down some steep, sloppy hills.

New hikin' boots from Columbia are sweet! Made a huge difference.

About 6 miles into our hike we came to a clearing and stopped. On the left of the horizon we could see Downtown Los Angeles and on the right of the horizon we could see the Pacific Ocean.

One of my favorite things about hiking in LA is that it allows you to get up above everything. It gives you perspective. It is an interesting feeling to be on the top of a huge hill/mountain where it is as quiet as a whisper and no one is near. You look down and see the city, the highways and everyone buzzing around and there you are, out in nature, away from it all.

Growing up in a small town in Michigan made me appreciate being outside. I have two brothers and we were constantly outside; building forts, playing Army, tubing the Shiawassee, fishing and camping. Getting out into nature will always be the best way for me to find peace.

I love being in LA. There is an incredible amount to see, do and eat but nothing can ever beat getting away into nature. Even just for a few hours.