Once owned by Bob Hope, China Flat is a mesa that straddles the Simi and Conejo Valleys in the area bordering Ventura and Los Angeles Counties. On September 30, 2005 a massive wildfire broke out and burned much of this wilderness. The green you see is post-fire growth as seen in early November.

The fire as seen from the mouth of my cul-de-sac shortly after sunrise. Destruction can be beautiful.

Sunset reveals burned bristles on the ridge

A wildflower known as a blue dick.

Common fiddleneck trio

It's easy to see why it's called fiddleneck

Burned to a crisp

Shady grove atop China Flat

A cute kid

Life begins anew.

The mountain unburned and burned.

A sunny day in March atop China Flat

Looking south toward the Santa Monica mountains. Malibu is just over the ridge.

Wild mustard on the hills leading to China Flat.

Oak grove atop China Flat

Bob Hope planned to build a golf course on China Flat. It is home to dozens of ancient oaks trees.

New growth on a burned tree.

Looking west. In the distance is Santa Cruz Island, part of Channel Islands National Park.

A storksbill