Location: 6300 Balboa Boulevard, Van Nuys

A little over a week ago, I took a break from the routine and decided to explore Lake Balboa for the first time. It was a warm, sunny, Friday morning and I was itching to start the day on the right note by getting some exercise outdoors. I desperately wanted to take in a change of scenery after a hectic work week, to breathe in some (not so smog-filled) fresh air, and spend some time alone in a quiet space.

The moment I stepped out of my car and headed toward the 27 acre lake (a beautiful gem located on a massive piece of land in the Sepulveda Basin), I knew I was in for something special. Situated in the San Fernando Valley, Lake Balboa Park (which I later learned was renamed the Anthony C. Beilenson Park) boasts activities galore. From picnic areas, walking/jogging paths, bike rentals, fishing, and boating; to a playground and neighboring trails connected throughout the Basin, it truly is a place to get lost in while the chaos of L.A. surrounds you.

I spent a couple of hours going for a long, but purposeful power-walk around the lake; admiring the blooming cherry blossom trees (until I realized TONS of bees where up there pollinating them and I quickly moved on); listening to the birds; smiling at all the owners walking their dogs; chuckling at a little girl and her mother feeding the ducks (when there’s a clear sign 5 feet away saying NOT to); taking in the beauty around me, only to end my short stay by sitting on a bench thinking “this is the life.”

Happy Monday! Here are just a few photos from that day: