Yesterday was a nice break from shopping, but my tours were still very much in the name of design. 

First stop, the Getty Center, an ode to modern architecture but with ancient treasures inside. Had a lovely day with my friend who came up from Orange County.

In front of the J.C. bust, a security guard accosted my friend and me, showing us a long scar on his bald head. Thanks to some KGB guys who messed him up in the early 70s, he explained.  

In 1981 he moved to the U.S. where, despite his background as a nuclear physicist, he worked many jobs from taxi driver to his current position. He gave us a math quiz (which we failed miserably) to illustrate the failure of American education yet, despite this, he loves his new country fiercely. The final part of his lecture included his standing beside a statue in a silly pose.  As we finally escaped, I explained to my friend that this was not an unusual occurrence for me.  I attract the crazy…I just do.  It’s entertaining, at best.

Finished the afternoon at the home of Kevin, where he treated us to coffee and tea and a private tour of his beautiful home (soon to be published in a major magazine…you saw it here first at F&F!). 

Kevin is a fellow blogger, though light years ahead of me, and we spoke before I arrived in L.A.  He was gracious to provide shopping tips and ideas prior to my trip. Hosting us in his home exceeded my expectations and I am forever grateful to the warmth and hospitality in this fast-paced city.

Both unassuming and comfortable, yet carefully curated, I could live here.  Thanks Kevin. Oh, and did I mention who he looks like?