Life's an Adventure:DO SOMETHING

Eat out on Feb. 24th...and help a good cause

2011-02-16T09:33:00.000-08:00

Its a win win....you get to eat out...which you most likely will be doing anyways...
but your dollars are going to suppor the Serra Project. The Serra Project is a 24 hour care group, hospice for those who are battling destitution due to HIV/AIDS. In other words...they are better then we are...and they need our help.

So check out this link...pick one of the many places to go eat...and well...GO EAT.

Heres a few places that are among the many choices:

Astro Burger
DarMaghreb
Hamburger Marys
Mexicali
Old Venice
Taste on Melrose
The Foundry on Melrose
and
Vincenti Ristorante

there are many more places...

You have no excuses!!!!

Hope you are having a nice rainy day LA!!!!!
I kinda like it... I love waking up to the sound of rain on the roof.

Bodega

2011-02-03T12:53:00.000-08:00

YUM!!! YUM!!!! YUM!!!!

So last night after work I met my dear friend Nikki, who I had not seen in soooo long for an after dinner drink.

We met at Bodega, Hollywood.

Its the third location, and the newest. The other locations are Santa Monica and Pasadena.
So pretty much if you live in or near Los Angeles Proper...you are not too far from a Bodega location.

Okay...so we randomly picked last night... Wednesday night. But I may never go another night...
They have a great happy hour till 7pm...didnt make it for that...but then each night is a special. The special on Wednesdays is, every bottle of wine is $20...WhaT??? thats crazy you say... it is I know.

Let me proof it even more...
a glass of wine at Bodega is either $8, $9 or $10....so
lets do the math... 2 glasses of wine is at least $16.... so... for a whole bottle $20 is a ridiculous amount!!!!
RIDICULOUS!!!!!

Also... I was starving and ate probably one of the best grilled cheeses I have ever had the pleasure of eating..... so good... Brie Cheese, apples, panini bread!!!!!!!

So I guess basically what I am saying is...
Who wants to meet me next Wednesday at Bodega?

New Year...New me...okay not really

2011-02-01T14:55:00.000-08:00

I am still the same dorky pretends she the bom diggity girl I have always been.

Okay...
so I am working a lot....a lot!!!
which is good and bad, do you know how hard it is to relearn to get up in the mornings...
I mean once you get used to sleeping in... its hard....

So I am going to slowly get my posts going....

and in honor of that....
Someone buy me these....

FLYING SQUIRREL PAJAMAS!!!!!!

I mean how cute is this....
the tail might bother me when I sleep but its worth it.....SO Fing CUTE!!!!!
Cushzilla is an awesome sight... Ill take one of each please

the Monster pajamas are super cute too...

see it would be so worth it...cause they would pull double duty....
Sleeping and Halloween party.....
hello.

Favorite Things- Downtown...and a girls gotta eat...and drink

2010-12-24T04:08:00.000-08:00

Okay...so I dont venture Downtown all that often...but I was down there last weekend for last minute shopping and my friends and I were hungry...so we ambled on over.... I ambled they walked... see I was rebreaking in some boots I havent worn in a lonnnnnng time, and my heels were hurting....so I ambled...it wasnt a pretty site....

anyways... we went to our go to place...

Petes Cafe and Bar.

They have great drinks... pretty cheap bottles of wine and great food... I am not kidding when I say they have great Mac and Cheese.

It was nice cause they were all decorated with Christmas decorations and it really put us in the holiday spirit.... it was very nice... they place has a great old time feel to it with dark woods and small tiled floor...but it has a very classy contemporary feel about it as well.

I can tell you that the food is great, the service is great and the prices are greatly reasonable.... does that work? greatly reasonable? I was trying to make it flow... I know Im a nerd....
But the prices are very reasonable....

So.. if you find yourself downtown and you are getting hungry... head on over to Main and 4th...and pop into Petes!!!!

Merry Christmas everyone!!!!

Favorite Things- my cupcake obsession is ridiculous

2010-12-23T05:46:00.000-08:00

Its very hard for me to make this decision... but I am confident I have made the right one...

Crumbs is my favorite cupcake place in Los Angeles....OMG...thats the first time I have admitted that...
I am sorry Yummy Cupcakes... I am sorry Frosted... those are my other two favorites...

but seriously... Crumbs.. is the best!!!!!!

They have such awesome flavor combinations, they melt in your mouth... its such yummy goodness....

So... looking for a gift? Cupcakes!!!!!!
Want something sweet? Say a treat for yourself? Cupcakes!!!!!
Gonna start the new year off healthy so you have decided to stuff yourself full of carbs before January? Cupcakes!!!!!

I am more serious then I have ever been when I say Crumbs is AWESOME!
And yes I may have gone slightly overboard with the photos... I just wanted to make your mouth water...
hopefully these pics have done that!!!

Just one more!!!!

Okay... now I need a cupcake...

Favorite Things- Coffee at the pig

2010-12-22T07:26:00.000-08:00

Okay... Los Angeles has hundreds if not thousands of coffee shops... and that is not including Starbucks and Coffee Bean... both of which I am a patron at.... but I do love being able to support the little guy....

I have a bunch of coffee shops I like to give my business too...depending on what area of the city I am in.

Today... lets talk about one in particular...
The Bourgeois Pig. (it took me a long time to figure out the spelling on that one... I felt so accomplished I bought a coffee.)

They dont have a website...so check out this link to Chowhound that has hours and address and such...
Now... they make a mean cuppa joe...and of course they have all the teas and fancy coffees you could want...
what I love is that if you get tea, you get a pot with all the fixins... love it!!!!

Also... this place is magic... in the back they have a pool table... but in the back there is also a doorway...that leads to a forest... I am serious... a dark room with couches and antique foresty looking furniture...
my favorite spot in this room... is a little cove to sit in... its a tight squeeze but its got room for two...and its like a tiny little playhouse.... its hard to explain.. you have to go...and check this place out....
its magic.

Favortie Things- Wine!!!!!

2010-12-21T07:20:00.000-08:00

Okay... rainy days got you down? Need a couple hours to do what you want?
Well... wine tasting is not so far away... Malibu has great wines... I did a whole post on it a few months ago... for any of you who are actually reading my blog.

But... need a good bottle of wine... but are not sure you wanna spend that much on a bottle without tasting it?
Cornell Wine tasting room... in Malibu.... in the hills...a nice drive... a beautiful old rustic building... an afternoon to do something for yourself before you continue shopping for others, working, going to parties....

Plus wine is always an acceptable gift... people love wine... so if you are looking for a gift for a hostess, or a white elephant party or just want to bring something with you to a holiday dinner... consider wine... and consider a good bottle....

Cornell will not dissapoint... plus next door is a fancy steak place...oh and down the street is a little deli with an outdoor patio if lunch is on the menu but you do not want to spend that much....!!!!

Oh and wine is easy to wrap... just throw it in a gift bag, or just wrap a ribbon around it... people love it!!!

PS- if you see the elusive white peacock... send me a pic... I saw just a glimpse of her when I was there... shes amazing.

Favorite Thins- Tender Greens

2010-12-20T05:46:00.000-08:00

Okay... so we blew our diet at Umami... but I dont feel like cooking and could really go for something healthy to make me feel less guilty.

Helloooooo..... Tender Greens.... a salad place... well thats what I call it. They have other foods...like sandwhiches, soups, meat entrees...but man they make a great salad....

LA is very lucky cause there is a Hollywood location as well as a Culver City location...so you can be practically anywhere in LA and be within half an hour of Tender Greens.

So... you feel guilty cause you have been baking and eating all those cookies and fudge...and candies...oh wait thats me....yes I am a grazer...and really obsessed with those peppermint Hershey Kisses that are out... they taste soooo yummy and look really festive on my cookies.

Anyways... feeling guilty about all the holidays foods and beverages you have been eating and drinking lately? and still you are not motivated to cook something healthy at home?
Quick.. get in your car... get to Tender Greens...let them take care of you. You will not regret it.

I promise.

Favorite things- Work out apparel

2010-12-19T06:34:00.000-08:00

Okay...so I may not be the most athetic or in shape person... but I do understand the importance of having high quality athletic apparel. I love yoga... I think it is hard but something you do at your own pace and each class you are allowed to push yourself farther then you think you can go.

I love finding out wow you are stronger than you think you are, you can do that pose...and you can hold it...and next time... you can push the pose even farther.

LuLu Lemon makes great apparel for yoga as well as other exercise you do. Dancers..you should come here too.

Its a bit expensive, but the clothes last forever and are very comfy, and high quality. Plus yoga pants give you the nicest looking tush...so worth it. Oh and this is not just for ladies...they have stuff for guys too...

and accessories like yoga mats, water bottles, gloves and bags.

So check out their website...they have stores locally or you can order online... if you still need to buy for the loved ones in your life...or yourself... cause really...this place is awesome... who could pass it up?

Favorite Things- I need to blow my diet

2010-12-18T05:21:00.000-08:00

Okay...so for the past few weeks we have shopped...we have worked... we have wrapped... we have gone to holiday parties...and for most of us... we have traveled....
I need a break... I need to eat a lot of calories...and I want it to be GOOD!!!!!

Umami Burger...

I cannot even tell you how much I love this place... totally relaxed atmosphere... gourmet burgers, beers, and decent prices!!!!

Give it a try... go blow your diet... relax for a few minutes... eat some gourmet fries and amazing onion rings... Soooooo worth it.

One of the best things are the homemade dipping sauces... so tasty!!!!!
Also... they have bottled sodas...their creme soda... is Tops.

Looks at this picture.
Now try to ignore my suggestion.
Yep.. you are starting to cave in aren't you.
I knew it.

Favorite Things- shopping for others

2010-12-17T06:22:00.000-08:00

Okay... so we have probably finished most of our holiday shopping... but for those few friends and family members who are hard to buy for... who we keep twiddling our thumbs over... how about popping into...

Mindful Nest. They have locations in Burbank, and Santa Monica. They are an awesome boutique that sells goods made by individual artists. They have everything from jewelry (rocking jewelry by the way) to kitchen sink stoppers to lotions to garden sculptures to paintings to handmade stuffed animals.

A few of you have been lucky enough to receive gifts from me from Mindful Nest.

I love shopping there they ladies who work there are so nice, and I get a good feeling inside when I know I am helping support someone... one person...not a huge corporation.

Favorite Things- everyday kinda splurge

2010-12-16T06:12:00.000-08:00

Okay.... so not really every day... but on a somewhat regular basis... I get pedis. I am not a huge fan of Manis... but I get them occasionally. But I love getting pedis.

I love how my toes feel "cuter" when I am done. How my feet are soft and the dry skin is gone. I have my regular place... which is awesome by the way... I will have to give them a write up later...but I have a place I have been wanting to go for awhile... I just couldnt get myself to go because I like my regular place...and this other place is more costly.

But... I went a couple of weeks ago with my pal Lori....and it was nice. I want to go back asap.

Mani Kir Royale. A basic mani pedi is in the mid $40 range...see a bit pricey. But.... they give you champagne... yep... you are already being pampered... you get gossip magazines to read... and you get some bubbly.... my days done.

I left with a rocking set of fingers and toes... as did Lori... she had some blinging toes, she went with gold and it was like hello New Years!!!!!

So... if you are looking to pamper yourself... and dont want to spend too much... give them a call and get your toes in there.

Favorite Things- Big Splurge

2010-12-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

Spa Luce....

I really shouldnt have to say anymore...this is hands down my favorite place to be.... my favortire massage I have ever gotten...also the hubbys.... we have a hard time going anywhere else for a massage.

Spa Luce...its in Hollywood at the Renaissance Hotel and it is luxurious. The hubby and I go here for couples massage and spend hundreds of dollars...and want to do it again the next day.

They treat you right at Spa Luce... they have great locker rooms...yes locker rooms... I am going off on locker rooms... but they give you robes and slippers, and amazing showers and fruit, and drinks.

Then the waiting/relaxing area...is amazing, faux white furs with beds and fruit and drinks, and magazines, and a fire. A mazing!!!!!!

Then the massages are wonderful. So relaxing, and peaceful and the rooms you are in are very nice and white, and clean.

You have to splurge and go one day, it is awesome.

More Favorite Things

2010-12-14T08:58:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wanted to send a really nice thank you? or write a letter to your grandma on paper that she will treasure?

I know handwriting is going out the door.... due to emails... but sometimes it is so nice to open up that mailbox and find a letter mixed in with all the bills and junk mail...

So why not send a few letters this holiday/new years season.

My suggestion... splurge on some really nice paper... at Soolip. Soolip is a beautiful little store in West Hollywood that sells amazing stationary and wrapping, and stamps and all that great stuff to make a letter beautiful and personalized.

I have given gifts from Soolip to many people... always with great reception. They have many gifty items as well... journals, candles, nice pens.

So do it... spend a bit of money on some really nice paper, and help support an independent business!!!!

Candy... when is candy not a splurge?

2010-12-07T06:02:00.000-08:00

Candy is awesome in so many ways. I can't even tell you about how great candy is.
And I am sure I dont have too... we all love it...and hate it. We all grew up on it... we all have our favorites...but do you remember your favorites from when you were a kid? I do too... buttons.... the wax soda bottles with the liquid in it, those packs of sugar...with the sugar stick? Remember?
Maybe not.....
but Rocket Fizz does...
and
Rocket Fizz.... ROCKS!!!!!
It's a small candy chain...that has classics, and new candies, as well as its a soda shop, they have tons and tons of bottled sodas. The last time I was there I had a chai soda!!!! It was super yummy.

So... check out Rocket Fizz... its a great place for stocking stuffers and to spend an hour...they have a patio on the back so you can enjoy your soda and candy there if you like...

Did I mention they have all kinds of Salt Water Taffy flavors???
they do.

So... Rocket Fizz is a splurge...cause its pretty affordable...but if you buy a bunch it starts to add up... but its worth it!!!!

Check it out there are locations popping up all over the city, the one I go to is in Burbank, but check out their website for the location near you!!!!

Favorite Things day 2- splurges

2010-12-06T01:28:00.000-08:00

Okay...so this is on my list because each class is a bit costly... $16... if you buy individual classes.

But...it is a damn good work out and very worth it.

Cardio Barre.

A dear friend of mine, Val took me to my first class...and I have loved it ever since.
The studio I go to is in Studio City, but they have studios all over the city.

The class is fun, and tough. If you have a love or interest in dance, then this is a great way to work out.
It is fairly obvious a barre is involved... you do a lot of leg and arm work at a ballet barre, but they dont forget your abs either... they save that for the end... and you get some stretching and cool down as well...
not a bad deal for $16.

Now... I consider this a splurge...cause I will take a class every now and then, but I have a gym membership already at another gym.
How I wish my gym offered a cardio class like this. How awesome would my legs and butt look?

So.. if you are not scared and are looking for a new way to exercise... give it a try...
oh and this is not just for the ladies... men... there are a lot of ladies but I see a guy in there every so often.

This is also a good thing for all those holiday food splurges we all will be partaking in.

Ashleighs favorite splurges

2010-12-05T07:27:00.000-08:00

So... The holidays are hectic, busy and about friends and family. So... why not try to sneak in some "me" time.
This weeks posts are going to be about some of my favorite splurges... things I try not to indulge in to often... cause really... they are splurges...some more so then others.

To get the week started....

Eyebrows... I love love love to have my brows done. I am not afraid to get in there myself and do them... not at all... I maintain on a regular basis; but sometimes a girl wants someone else to get in there do a bit of plucking...some waxing...some coloring.

So.. my favorite place to got....

Zoey Van Jones- Brow Studio

Its in Pasadena...and they are the Best!!!!
It is so much fun to go in, they treat you like a princess, they chat with you and the place is set up very nice. You walk in and you feel pampered... you walk out and you look great.

Plus you are in Pasadena and there are a ton of shops and restaurants around so go and make an afternoon of it.

Plus, eyebrow waxing is universal... MEN do not be afraid... your partner will love you all the more for it. Waxing and tweezing is not THAT bad.
I mean if you think grooming the eyebrows is not for you... this place will change your mind.

Oprahs got one... so I want one too...

2010-11-30T10:27:00.000-08:00

A list of favorite things...
but...
I am gonna alter it a bit... to a list of splurges, places to get gifts, and of course since food is so darned important around the holidays I am gonna throw in some of my fav places to get delicious foods!!!!

So.. if you can wait....
the fun starts next week!!!

I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!!!

I know I did.
I got to see my niece and nephew...and Snow!!!

Living in LA....you dont get much snow...so that was exciting.

OMG... how to keep the state parks open now?

2010-11-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

Did you vote?
I hope you did.

So... I am a bit upset at a certain prop in CA not being passed...
Prop 21...no not 19... 21.

Prop 21 was a tax on Californians to help keep State parks funded, so they can a. stay open, b. keep employees working at the parks, c. keep the parks clean and d. keep the parks safe.

In the last couple of years California politicians, have found ways to get out of the budget crisis... this is by cutting the State park budget. This means that parks have been closed part time, and they have less employees.

Now... as a native to California I dont like that.....
I grew up going to these parks. I want my kids to be able to go to these parks.

So what would have happened had 21 passed... is that Californians would have paid an extra $18 a year, and with that you got free admission and parking to any CA State park.
Now personally I dont think that is too much to pay... if you break it down its $1.50 a month....
$1.50 a month to keep jobs in CA
$1.50 a month to keep parks OPEN
$1.50 a month to keep parks clean
$1.50 a month to keep parks safe

So... because this didnt pass... I am now on "We must help the parks mode"
So... my friend Kelly showed me a link about how the parks in a crisis...and on that same site... I found a link to donate money to....

So here is the link... please DONATE!!!!!
and pass this link on... we need to keep the parks open.
How many of like to camp, like to hike, like to be out in the great outdoors?
Well.. the great outdoors needs your help.

so please donate...
or you can shop on their site...and buy goods that will help support the parks

Sonoma State Beach

Armstrong Redwoods State Park

Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park

Anza- Borrego Desert State Park

Emerald Bay State Park

Cayucos State Beach

Angel Island State Park

Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park

Point Lobos State Reserve

Montana De Oro State Park

Please dont let us lose this beauty.

Im sorry this blog is soooo preachy... I am just a true believer of doing things....and saving the beauty of our state is doing something.

Devils Night is at it again!!

2010-11-02T15:06:00.000-07:00

This time with
the always awesome....

Napoleon Dynamite.

Come on... you know you are just like me...anytime...and I do mean anytime it is on tv which is at least 1 time a month... you cannot help but watch it.

Well...
this Saturday my friends at Devils Night will be putting up the good ol drive in and the flick will be Napoleon Dynamite!!!!!

Go...have fun!!!! get out in the world!!!

Gates at 6pm, movie at 730pm
this is a popular event...so buy your tix ahead of time.

Oh and yes...I do love the Llama.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T01:06:00.000-07:00

Hey all
Hope you have a great holiday!!!!!!
give some kids some candy and get scared!!!!!!!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Pumpkins!!!!

2010-10-29T05:43:00.000-07:00

Just photos of some pumpkins I wish I had done.

Sesame Street:

This one is just... Fun.

Pretty pumpkins.

AARRGGGHHHH!!!!

Wish I was this creative...and talented... I can barely cut triangle eyes into a pumpkin

Love it.

And... because I am a complete Little Big Planet geek...

So... I am still sick

2010-10-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

I am beginning to think I have the plague.
I am gross....
I can't even function.

My poor hubby.... I left work early yesterday and he had to take care of me for most the afternoon into the night.... poor him.

So... here is the deal, I am not going to worry about my lack of posts this week... well... cause they are not gonna happen.

I just cant.

So there.

Its not like anybody is reading this anyway....

So... Happy Halloween...I think this year I am the DD.....cause even if by some miracle I do feel well enough to go to a party.... I am not drinking... I Cannot imagine bringing being drunk into this mix of sniffles, mucus, inhaler, Orang juice, Zicam, plugged ears, piles of kleenex...and everything else I got going on.

And because I can....
here is a funny picture of dogs trick or treating.

Sick

2010-10-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

So... I am sick.
I hate being sick.
And I am at work.
I really hate being sick at work.
I just want to lie around under 5 blankets with some crazy holiday socks on... cause thats all I can find that matches lately... yesterday I was sporting green and white candycane socks... the day before... purple socks with spiders on them....

So.. I just want to lie around under 5 blankets with socks on and watch a cheesy movie, with some soup.
Cause right now... my head is feeling heavy, my nose goes from stuffy to running... stuffy to running... stuffy to running.
I am attempting to drown my illness out...
I think I have peed 10 times today... the hubby says I have to be careful not to get liquid poisoning... or whatever it is... where you drink to much you drown....
I am not worried.. cause I seem to be peeing constantly so I think I am good.

Anyways... Im sick and at work... and it sucks.
Happy Winter has finally arrived to you too.
Oh.. and

ps- the hubby is taking really good care of me, spoiling me even... but he is the one who got me sick...

Carnival of Darkness 2

2010-10-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

Okay... so its October...
and you dont feel like its Halloween... so what do you do?
How bout a Horror Short film festival?

The LA Film School is putting one on.
On Thursday Oct. 28....

Carnival of Darkness 2.

Its pretty reasonable too... $10
These films are made by the future filmmakers of America people... these people will be making our entertainment... so why not go and judge for yourself who should continue and who needs to think about continuing their studies in another field?

If you like Horror films... I suggest you go to this.
I on the other hand... get enough of them thru the Hubby....

Go on get scared.

Lost Boys

2010-10-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Alright...
If you are like me... you include films like: Shaun of the Dead, Clue and Gremlins as Halloweenish movies...
What I mean by this is that I feel like these are my type of movies to watch during October...a tiny bit scary... enough to qualify as a participant in a day of horror film watching with friends.

Also in that I would say is... The Lost Boys... classic vampire film from the 80's.
Keifer Sutherland and the Coreys... classic.

Well... my friends at Devils Night Drive in must agree cause they are screening The Lost Boys at their downtown drive in on Oct. 23rd!!!!!

These are good peeps...and I wanna support them cause they rock!!!!
Check em out.

Mid Week Reminder

2010-10-20T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hey all...

So just a friendly Wednesday Reminder....
that Saturday will be the Silverlake Art and Craft fair.
They will have some food trucks and some local handmade goodies.

Please go support your locals. You can find some great stuff here, the hubby and I go and are always amazed at the deals we find.

We always find some records we were only too happy to scoop up.
I have found some great used books, last time I went I bought an adorable pillow shaped like an owl.
My friend and I bought a pretty swanky baby blanket for a friends baby boy. It was pretty badass.. it had griffins on it...and was made of satin.

A dear friend of mine has been known to go and sell her vintage salt and pepper shakers... they are rockin... you really start to find yourself going... I could use 3 more sets of salt and pepper shakers... and trust me you find ways to justify. I mean who doesnt want salt and pepper shakers that looks like: clogs, mushrooms, a coat rack where the hats are the shakers, and beer steins.

So please think about buying something from someone local...

Backwoods Maze

2010-10-19T06:30:00.000-07:00

Hey So last year I posted about the Backwoods Maze.... and I had not yet gone when I posted. I went last year.. .and it IS CREEPY!!!!!!!
If you love to be scared and you love the Halloween mazes... THEN YOU WILL LOVE THIS ONE!!!!

It is still free, and still in Burbank in someones backyard.... but it is awesome.
It is very cramped quarters so its single file... so you will be in a small group and you will scared by a monster.....

This year I found a link to to it with videos and photos and info.
These people are serious about their maze... they put it together in September... that is how much time they put into it.

GO!!! get yourself scared...oh.. but personally I dont think its for the kiddies... They WILL have nightmares.

Here is the address:
1912 N. Pepper St.
Burbank, CA 91505

Check out their website for times and other information.

Oh and P.S- do not be fooled... I put up the tamest picture I could find... this thing is scary and gross!!!!

Culver City Oktoberfest

2010-10-18T06:41:00.000-07:00

Okay... So by now you probably understand a few things about me...
Alcohol is a big part of my life...and I wanna share that with you.
Please dont be offended... its just that a lot of awesome things seem to go on about alcohol.

Other things are happening too... but in todays post... well... it is about beer.

This Wednesday night... Culver City will be host to their very own Oktoberfest....
Downtown Culver City with all its cute shops and restaurants will be a hopping.
There will be music, and prizes and food.
There will be discounts and free stuff too!!!!! yay!!!

There will also be wine tastings and free classes, such as pole dancing lessons.

Not to mention all the beer tastings you can enjoy, many of them seasonal and artisanal.

For more info... check out their site!!!!

Just a Yogamerican Dream Reminder!!!

2010-10-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

You have 2 more shows to go see this show!!!

If you know anything at all about Yoga... even just the fact that you use a mat and breathe you will find the humor in this show.

Oh... and there you go... now you know that you use a mat and breathe.

So... go to the website... and go see this show!!!!

Support local theater.

Gourmet Food Truck Festival

2010-10-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

Go to Valencia Much?
No, me neither... but if I wasnt already going to the awesome Haunted Haywagon on Saturday (see early post) I would hop in my Mini with my hubby and head to Valencia.... because they are having a Gourmet Food Truck Festival!!!!

You all know how I feel about the food trucks... they rock!!!! So I am constantly amazed and excited about all the food truck happenings. I mean if you dont hit a food truck event this year it is NOT my fault. They are like Starbucks.. they are everywhere!!!! and I love it.

So... this Saturday head to Valencia... cause from 5pm-9pm 20+ trucks will be at the Bridgeport Marketplace!!! which has great shopping... and easy parking!!! YAY!!!!!!

Here is a short list of just a few of the trucks participating:

Dim Sum Truck
Tapa Boy Food Truck
Fishlips
Comfort Truck
The Sweets Truck
and
DOSA Truck

Alright...so why dont you take a drive... at night its nice with the windows open and the music playing....
hit some trucks up...do a little shopping... and then grab a drink....

Now that is a complete evening out.

Halloween shindig at the Aquarium of the Pacific

2010-10-14T10:19:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are like me... have like 5 things going on on Halloween (Saturday Oct. 30) and nothing goin on the rest of the weekend.... you kinda want to spread the love around...

So.. here is something to do on Friday Oct. 29!!!!
yay!

Night Dive at the Aquarium.

This is not for the kiddies, its 18+. Alcohol will be sold, and there will be dancing and you can check out the aquarium!!!
I have never been to any of the night events...and am really excited to check out all the animals at night.

Oh... and since this is a Halloween event... dressing up is encouraged!!!!!

This is gonna be so much fun...
oh and tickets are only $11.95.

Oh and check out their website for more info on other events at the Aquarium, they got some good stuff coming up.

Los Angeles Beer Week

2010-10-13T01:37:00.000-07:00

So I just stumbled upon the fact that is is Beer Week here in LA.

But do not worry... the best part is yet to come.

On Sunday the Beer Week Festival will take place at Union Station.

Its such a gorgeous building, I love when I spot it in films.

Anyways, the festival is from noon- 4pm.

Tickets are $40 but you get UNLIMITED beer.

did you read that... UNLIMITED.

Sounds like an awesome deal.

Food trucks will also be on hand, so you can have beer and food pairings.

Plus... if you haven't put it together yet....

Union Station is a major public transportation hub... subways, busses, trains...cabs if you will.

So.. you can get your drink on...and you can get home safely.

Dine LA Week

2010-10-12T22:08:00.000-07:00

Okay...

So... if you haven't been told... or you just don't know.

It is Dine LA week....which means... those restaurants that you have been wanting to go to but you don't cause they are a bit pricey....and its easier to go to Poquito Mas at the end of your street... (thats what I do)....then now is the time.

There are hundreds of restaurants in Los Angeles that are involved...and they have pre fix meals for lunch and dinner.... check out the website... and maybe check out a new place.

Dine LA goes on thru Oct. 15th... so you have a few more days to enjoy!!!!!

Go out and EAT!!!!!!!

P.S- Just so we are clear... I like Poquito Mas... thats not a knock at them, I just know I should eat other places as well.

Haunted Hayride

2010-10-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

As Halloween is soon to be upon us, I want to post some fun Halloween activities.

The first is something I just stumbled upon and am thrilled I did...it sounds super scary and fun and so very East Coast.

A Haunted Hayride!!!!

This sounds so fun.
This year it is going to be at Griffith Park, and it will go thru the Old Zoo.
If you have ever hiked thru the Old Zoo area you know its creepy during the day...so at night it has to be very scary..plus there will be people jumping out at you.
Sounds like a blast...

Sounds like a fun way to get all warm, break out those scarves and hats... sit in a wagon with friends and get some scare on.

I am going to this.

There is also food trucks and a carnival which sounds awesome too. So make a whole night of it!!!!!

Check out the website for prices and dates.

Pasadena Wine Festival

2010-10-06T07:04:00.000-07:00

Hey...so Saturday is the Pasadena Wine Festival.

There will be 100+ wines to try
Food Trucks
and
Live Jazz and Salsa under the stars

FUN!!!!
Love it!

Plus... it will be at the beautiful L.A. County Arboretum. If you have never been you should go just to see the awesome grounds.

This sounds like a nice calm way to spend a Saturday afternoon/evening.
It will make you feel like you live in one of those small towns that actually has a "community" feeling.
Sadly this is not one for the kiddies....its 21+ only.

Tickets are between $28-$85 depending on what kind of wine experience you want.
Check out the website for more info.

Improv in Los Angeles

2010-10-05T10:00:00.000-07:00

Hey all...

So todays post is about Improv.

You should go see some.
It is hilarious.

So let me tell you why I am all about Improv.
I was a theater major, in College and I stopped acting a few years after I graduated.
So recently I have been feeling very uncreative. So I started to go see some improv, and I started to take classes. Improv is scary...but its a rush.

Anyways, in this time of... unstableness in the world, where people are being a little bit tight with their money it is important to go out and spend money on the arts. But... I know what you are saying... you get burned a lot when you go see shows.

There IS a lot of bad theater in Los Angeles. I won't lie to you. But this is why you should consider the art of improv. It is funny. There are soo many schools around Los Angeles, and the prices are really low to see a show. You could say to yourself... I feel like seeing some improv and you could find 2-5 shows to choose from that day, thats how much improv is around...and these are just the schools I am talking about.

Here are the links to some of the top improv in the city. Check them out....go to a show... have a laugh.
Plus we need to support the arts!!!!

Upright Citizens Brigade
Comedy Sportz
IO West
The Groundlings
ACME Comedy Theatre

It's Monday... and its Gloomy

2010-10-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

I know the title and theme of my blog are about getting out and doing stuff....
but some days... like the first gloomy day of the winter season... I just want to stay home and wrap up under a blanket... watch some tv and eat some soup.

Its days like today that I wanna spend with my hubby...sadly he is working today. I wanna go to a movie and stay in doors.

I also wanna bake something warm and chocolatey.

So... Today I am taking it to you... my few but fantastic readers...

what do you do on a gloomy day like this, where all you wanna do is stay inside and snuggle up?

oh and the picture below... made me laugh...
I dont have a dog or a doggie umbrella
I just thought it was funny.

Santa Monica Wine and Food Festival

2010-10-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

Its tomorrow!!!!!

It sounds like a lot of fun!!!!
A nice afternoon on the beach, eating and drinking what is not to like?

So heres some info on it:

This festival celebrates the independent restaurants. No chains are allowed, and they are really putting a strong emphasis on fresh foods.

There will be live music and dancing as well as cooking demonstrations. One of them is one that I am super excited about... my favorite cupcakery will be doing a demonstration. Tiffin Soforenko the Executive Chef at Yummy Cupcakes will be showing her stuff!!!!

Yummy Cupcakes is awesome by the way, they have a location in Santa Monica as well as Burbank.

There will also be several other cooking demonstrations as well.

So.. there will be tons of restaurants and wineries there.

Tickets are a little bit pricey... but its worth it cause it includes your tastings, entertainment, drinks, and cooking demonstrations.

General Admission: $40
VIP: $60- I would totally splurge on this event and go for the VIP tickets.

Oh and they are donating a portion of the proceeds to the following charities and groups:

Boys and Girls Club of Watts/Willowbrook
The Heritage Education Group
and
The Special Olympics of Southern California

I pasted the links for all the above groups so you can check them out for yourselves, and maybe give something to them... money, time, stuff.

I mean just check out the website for the event and look at all the businesses that are involved....

So... to recap:
Got nothing to do tomorrow?
Head to Santa Monica...and go enjoy being near the ocean with some great food and wine.

Oktoberfest!!!!

2010-09-30T09:27:00.000-07:00

Alright,

So every year I say... I am going to to go Oktoberfest, and every year I am like...damn its November... I didnt go to Oktoberfest.

This year I will GO!!!! I have a few more weekends to get my butt down there!!!!!

The cute little area of Torrance known as The Alpine Village.

Anyways, Here is the schedule which run thru October 23rd:
Fridays- 6pm-1am
Saturdays- 6pm-1pm
Sundays- 1pm-6pm

Fridays and Saturdays are a bit louder and geared towards adults, while Sundays are geared a bit more for families.

Besides Beer, there is a ton of food and entertainment.
But most of all... there is BEER.

Tickets are available online for $10.
Not a bad price.

So go and celebrate!!!!!! From all the friends I know who go I know this is a good time!!!!
And I love that Sundays are geared for the little ones.. .the future beer drinkers of America haha!!!

Fall is almost here!!!!

2010-09-29T07:26:00.000-07:00

So Fall is kind of upon us... its just so hot out its hard to tell.
Well...
I think that means it is time to go Apple Picking!!!!! I mean how Fallish is that!!!!!??????
I have had friends who go every year... it always sounded so East Coast to me...and I twinge of jealousy would set in that I was never invited... so I decided to do some research and find some info on Apple Picking in SoCal!!!!

and I hit the Jack Pot!!!!!

Sky Meadow Farms!!!! in some place called Leona Valley....
was not sure where that was... so I mapped it... it's near Lancaster and Palmdale..so not too far away.

Sky Meadow sounds awesome, its family owned and operated, and they have all kinds of stuff you can pick yourself:

Cherries- June
Apricots- June/July
Apples- August- November
Peaches- September- October

So... we are just in time for Apples and Peaches!!!!!

Sky Meadow is open Sat and Sun only from 9am-5pm, but ask that you call before you head up just to confirm their schedule, and make sure they are open that day.

So I cannot wait to go pick some apples!!!! I imagine they taste so much better if you pick your own!!!!

This is a perfect fall activity and would also be a great annual event.

The Long Beach Street Food Festival!!!

2010-09-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

OH MY!!!!!
I cannot wait... its like Christmas in early October!!!!!

So... I missed out on the LA Street Food Festival... and it nearly crushed me... my dear food trucks were there... and I have been dieing... okay so my blog is telling me this is spelled wrong.. but it won't give me other optins... dying? dyeing? di-ing? whatev's.... I have been dieing to try The Grilled Cheese Truck... I mean COME ON!!!!!!
How awesome does that sound... who doesn't like a grilled cheese... I even like it with cheap bread and fake super processed cheese.... imagine how it would taste with quality ingredients?

Okay... so back to the post at hand....
The LB Street Food Fest!!!!
Yippee!!!!
Cannot wait... gonna go... wish it was today cause I would be there!!!!

Okay so here is the deal....
25+ food trucks including:

The Grilled Cheese Truck
Nom Nom Truck (super excited loved them on The Great Food Truck Race)
Crepes Bonaparte
India Jones
CoolHaus (amazing, we ha them come by set on a show I worked on)
Munchie Machine
Greasy Wiener( I am excited about this one cause I am a child...and think its name is funny)
Fresh Fries LA
Ahn Joo (had this before, FABULOUS!!!!!! and the nicest people)
Knock Out Taco
Slice Truck

there are so many more trucks!!! These are just a few of them.

Okay... so when is this and whats the info about it?

Okay so here is a link to the website.
This day of glorious food on wheels is Saturday Oct. 9th.
10:30am-5:30pm
At Rainbow Lagoon Park in Long Beach
If you buy your tix ahead of time its $6, or if you wait... $8 at the gate.

I have a wedding to go this day... but you know what I am so committed to food trucks... that I am going to get up early... drive down to the LBC...and get something greasy and then go home and get all perty and have a great day.... that is how I roll.

I know you are saying...this girl knows how to party. I do.

Alright...so go to this... check out the site for all the info on the food trucks...cause your fav. food truck is probably gonna be at this.

The Yogamerican Dream!!!

2010-09-27T05:02:00.000-07:00

Alright...
So I am gonna cleanse my body of all the alcohol I have been shoving at you....
time to do something healthy.... maybe a bit of exercise?

Okay... alright... I know... baby steps... maybe a show about exercise?
But... it has to be funny... and not too intense... we don't want to feel like we have exercised while attending it.

Well... you are in luck... a dear friend of mine Miss Casey G. is premiering her one woman show... The Yogamerican Dream!!!!!

I have lucked out and had the pleasure of having her guide me thru some yoga... and shes a great instructor. I have also seen her perform in several plays and I know she will be just as great in this show.

Anyways... This show is going to be a lot of fun.

This is a one woman show, Casey will play seven different characters who are all involved in yoga for their own reasons. As a yoga instructor, she has come across many different types of people and I am excited to see them.

I am very excited to see this show.

The Yogamerican Dream will be performed on Sunday evenings in Hollywood, thru the month of October.
Please check out her website for more info.

It opens this coming Sunday... you should go!!!!

Oh and if you need further proof that this show will be good...
heres a link to a promo video she shot with another rockstar talent Barak Hardley.

Check out the video... hilarious.

Oh and an added bonus... both of these peeps... are in the short the hubby and I shot and are currently finishing up!!!! So yeah... I did it... I gave myself a little plug... but its my blog...and if you are still reading you are a fan anyways...

Alcohol... Friday Edition

2010-09-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

So... here we are... Friday.
I have been pondering what my last post this week should be about... I promised you all this week would be focused on Alcohol...and I will keep my word. I just want to blog about a place I love to drink.

So... one of my drinking haunts... where do I go a lot.

Well... I have a few so I thought I would touch on a few places... but briefly.. I know you don't have all day.

Okay...

1. The Well.
Hollywood area

Oh The Well, I have spent a lot of time and a bunch of money here. The reason is that it is near where a lot of my friends work, and its pretty easy to get to for me as well.
Plus... they have a great Happy Hour... it goes until 9pm!!!!!
That rocks... cause how much do you love going to a happy hour...but work... you just cannot get out in time.... the solution... The Well.

My drink of choice... The Rumba Punch... tastes like juice... but boy does it have a kick!!!!

They also have what I would classify as gourmet bar food... they have pita and hummus, Pesto Chicken Sandwiches, Goat Cheese pizza, salads...and they have fried food as well... fries, fried zucchini, sweet potato fries and other fried foods as well.

The place can get loud, but if you can get a booth you are usually pretty good.

I like to describe The Well as a fancy dive bar.

2. El Bar.
Universal City area

El Bar, has only been around the last couple of years. It took over the old Casting Office space, in an updated strip mall.

El Bar is small, dark and can get crowded on the weekends. They make great drinks and have very comfortable seating. If you are hungry, they have a deal that you can order food from the pizza place next door, they make really good pizza.

El Bar is good for meeting up after work to get a great martini with some friends and just unwinding. Parking is pretty easy and its easy to get to as it is right off the 101 freeway.

Give El Bar a try one of these weeknights!!! They also have great happy hour prices, and their happy hour also goes until 9pm!!!! YES!!!

It is also connected to the Vintage Bar Group, so the link will take you to the same place that The Well link will.

3. Pitfire Pizza.
North Hollywood/Downtown Los Angeles/ West LA/Culver City

Okay... I know what you are saying...a pizza place?
Yes.

Pitfire, has marvelous Sangria. I am at the North Hollywood location at least twice a month. I havent been to the West LA or Culver City locations... but the North Hollywood location has a great patio area with a huge fire in the middle you can huddle around if its chilly.

I am not kidding about the Sangria. Their food is excellent... but their Sangria is top notch. My friends and I have been none to sit around and drink a pitcher or two... and I cannot remember the exact price... but I believe a pitcher is under $20...so its really affordable.

Okay...so if I have not convinced you about Pitfire...go to their website...look at their food...its really tasty, and really fresh...go have a quiet night...and dont forget to grab a glass or pitcher of their Sangria.

And to wrap out todays post....

4. The Saddle Ranch.
West Hollywood/ Universal City Walk

Okay I know... The Saddle Ranch.. has a bad reputation. I dont go here at night... not particularly a club kinda gal...plus I am old... everyone who comes to dance is like 21...I'd be like a mom there.

Okay... so what I do come here for... the Sat/Sunday brunch. Until 3pm... for $10 you get unlimited Mimosas and Bloody Marys. The Bloody Marys are really good. They also have a menu of Mimosas and Bloody Marys...so if you want to tweak the taste of it a bit... no problem!!!

The food is pretty good too...and the portions are huge!!!!
You will leave The Saddle Ranch a very happy person. Plus... the Universal location is very quiet you will have a lot of space to yourself, the W. Hollywood location is usually pretty crowded. I think this is because it is easier to get to... Universal you do have to deal with parking... I think if you park up near the restaurant near the City Walk.. it will cost $10 to park. Or... if you want to save that $10 for your drinking... you can park at the bottom of the hill at the Park n Ride...and take the free tram up the hill.. you just have to give yourself time to get up...and then to get back down.
If you are really adventurous... you could walk up the hill... which I have done... its pretty tough, its very steep.

The W. Hollywood location has valet... not sure of the price... but I think I remember it being fairly reasonable.

Oh... and did I mention the bull? Both locations have a mechanical bull.

Alright... So I think todays post covered a lot of good info...
I gave you places to go for Happy Hour, for dinner and a drink and a great weekend Brunch place!!!!

Alright...so this is not the end of me posting about Alcohol...never fear... there will be more...

Have a great weekend!!!!

Cheap wine tasting

2010-09-23T10:51:00.000-07:00

To keep with the theme of alcohol this week...
today's post is about...wine!!! I know I know... Ive done two already about wine....
but I drink wine a lot....so that is what I know.

Okay.. so I had you at Cheap wine....

Vendome.

For those of you who do not know what Vendome is.... its a wine and spirits shop.
They are a great store, and resource. I go in there all the time and I have questions and want recommendations...for gifts, for a pairing...for something cheap.... and I have never been led astray. The employees are soooo knowledgable. They also have a huge liquor section as well... you WILL find what you are looking for there. The hubby and I are always into making some special drink for the holidays...and they usually involve some liquor we do not keep in the house.... and we always find it in Vendome.

Now... you are probably thinking...she said wine tasting.... where does this come in at a wine shop...

Well Vendome is a small chain, and their location in Toluca Lake... has the best wine tastings, and beer tastings. They have an area with a bar. Which is large for being in a store.

Okay, so here is how the tastings work... they have a long list of wines, and you can pick which wines you want to taste and you only pay for the tastings you have. This is a great setup for those of you who like different kinds of wines. A lot of the tastings are $1, but some of the more expensive bottles are $2 or maybe even $3 for the tasting....but these bottles are very expensive.

An added bonus to the Vendome tasting. Cheese. They offer a selection of cheese for $2 a chunk. Its a pretty good time for not much money.

The wine tastings at this Vendome are Wed/Thurs/Fri/Sat/Sun nights.
Wed. all tastings are $1. SCORE.

Saturday afternoons they have beer tastings.....the hubby loves this. It is set up the same way where you can taste what you want off the list.
Or
you can pay one price for all the beers, for example when we went he tasted 15 beers...and paid $10.
Not bad.
Me, not being a beer person... I sat and drank a RootBeer. I thought it was somewhat fitting.

Now before you get on my case about not liking beer...and I just haven't found my beer... the Hubby has me taste every beer he ever tries, and he tries a lot of beer. He loves to find a new beer.

Another cool thing about Vendome... is you can get on their email list and they email you once a week and let you know what the theme of that weeks tastings are, plus they host special tastings, like this week a Scotch tasting.

So... go ask questions... do a quick tasting...that is what they are there for!

Oh... and I just took a peak at their calendar... September 30th.... is U pick they pour... I have had my eye on a couple of somewhat pricey bottles... maybe I will pop by and pick a bottle.

Wine in LA... Con't.

2010-09-22T12:24:00.000-07:00

Okay... So... for those of you who did not read yesterdays post... you should read yesterdays post... or you will be sooooo lost... okay not really... but I really enjoyed yesterdays post... so maybe you will too?

Okay... so as promised....
The second stop on the Malibu Hills Wine tour.

Cornell Winery.

I am driving with my friend Trent.. we were of course blasting music from my Ipod driving through the hills in my Mini...and felt like we had left the city...and entered some crazy town where people say hi to each other...and will slow down for you to cross the street.
We came down Mullholland Hwy, and saw tons of motorcyclists...and I was like... hmmmm... maybe we made a wrong turn? this is a bit crazy... I mean there were hundreds of motorcycles...half of which were in front of what looked like a barn converted into a bar...but then there were also people... lots of them just standing outside mingling and laughing. We started to wonder why we were not a part of this...and what world do you have to be from to be a part of this... Jealousy almost started to strike...
until I remembered that we were moments from wine. This thought alone consoled me.

So... a few curves of the Mulholland Hwy later, and Trent and I are pulling up to a barn that has been converted into a fancy Steak House? (Apparently a lot of barns were in the area).
Right next door is this fabulous old house, that is now.... Cornell Wines. I look over...and there is a white peacock!!! Where am I? An all WHITE Peacock...?????

Okay.. so tons of motorcycles, super curvy road, tons of converted barns, and now a freakin white peacock? This place is magical... and I never want to leave... please bring on the wine...and the day will be perfect.

So... I finally get convinced to go inside rather then chase the peacock...and it was a good thing... inside was just as magical... you walk in and there are tons of bottles for sale, set up on fabulous displays. Go a little bit further in and you see a tall counter with people pouring wine.

We had seven in our group so they asked us to go back to a long table... it felt very important. We had our own space on this amazingly long table, with a chandelier and candelabras spread out on the tables. On the walls are beautiful photos for sale.

And then... the wine comes... 8 tastings for $12... pretty good deal.... and they had some great prices as well.

The wines you taste are from several different vineyards around California. Another cool thing... each week they change the wines you taste... so you can go back each week.. and pretend you are in another world... cause really... you are. This place is so random...and magical.

Because... we just had a tasting at the fabulous SIP..and now 8 tastings later... I was done. I want to be safe as well as have a great time...
So.. we sat outside on some wooden lawn chairs...and let the wine where off before heading out!!!

Now.. I did not go into the steak house... but I am definitely going back to Cornell...so I have plans to stop by the steak place, which is actually called The Old Place. And I have to say their history is quite interesting, and their menu looks great. Their breakfast does too.... it would be fun to have a late brunch here and then go taste some wine.

Wine Tasting in Los Angeles

2010-09-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

So my friends and I go winetasting... well... A LOT.
We have done Temecula, Solvang, Paso Robles, some tasting rooms in the city, some of us have done Santat Barbara, Ojai and Napa.

So... yeah... we know wine tasting.
We may not have the snobby palette yet... but I am sure one day we will. As of now, we go wine tasting to have a good time, to find some wine we like and to let loose... just a little bit.

So, when a friend from out of town came by... we wanted to do some tasting... but an over night was not in the picture...but a day trip... that was doable.

So... we went to Malibu...

We only did 2 cause... well we felt very happy after the second place.

to start... SIP.

SIP is right off Kanan Road on the way to Malibu from the 101.

SIP... its cute!!! They have a great set up, and some great wines.
They have a great patio you can taste in, or you can hang out inside by the bar.

One of the things I thought was cool...was they offered different tastings, so that if you love white wine... you could choose the White Flight, or if you are a fan of reds... the Red Flight... they also had a Mixed Flight and a Woodstock Flight which were a little more expensive wines, which I believe was all red wine.

So... of course my group of seven... we all had different flights... why make it easy on the barista?
But we had a great time... we started outside and then eventually found ourselves finishing our flight inside.

Also... next door is a country market that serves food. Its a small grill counter inside the market. The Rustic Canyon Grill.

Now, its not gourmet food... but I ordered a veggie burger...and it was reallllllly good. Plus... if you can sit outside in the hills, they have fountains and tons of trees... you enjoy a glass of wine and a burger or some fries... its a pretty nice day. I mean... come on... who can find anything wrong with that?

Our next stop? Well you will have to wait for my next post....

Xiomara makes a darn good Mojito.

2010-09-20T00:35:00.000-07:00

So... I have been keeping tabs of my stats lately...and my most popular entries are about alcohol...so this week I am dedicating all my posts to alcohol...and the many places I love to get it in this city.

Lets start with... the Mojito...

So... I love me a good Mojito. That is a true statement.

Bring me a Mojito and I am a happy gal.
Now... Los Angeles has some great Mojitos... I should know.

But.. recently... well a few months back a Co-Worker of mine took me to Xiomara's.

This place has A-Mazing Mojitos. They have a sugar cane machine...now I am not sure about the proper name for it...but it works the way a juicer does... they throw in fresh Sugar Cane ( I know right... real sugar cane?) and it comes out in liquid form...

This is what makes Xiomaras Mojitos stand apart.

They also have a great menu... they are a Cuban restaurant, but they have a lovely bar, and a great upstairs for all you rowdy kids.

I had the pleasure of grabbing a Mojito here the other night with some friends, and they all agreed...they were pretty darn good.

If you are in the mood for a super fresh and tasty Mojito...give Xiomara a try.

Check their website for hours and menus!!!

SilverLake Art, craft and Vintage Flea Market!!

2010-09-17T17:55:00.000-07:00

Go here!!!
Its a lot of fun... and there are food trucks!!!

Go...shop...eat...support your locals.

Strut your Mutt!!!

2010-09-17T04:36:00.000-07:00

How cute is that???? I mean come on!!!!!
Strut your Mutt!!!!!

So adorable... I wanna go and I don't even have a dog.

Sunday morning in Santa Monica the Best Friends Animal Society is putting on a walk to help end animal homelessness in Los Angeles.
The walk is only a mile, and is leisurely. This is not a race... I mean it could be... but the point of this is to raise money, bring out your doggies in their doggy best and have some fun.

The walk starts and ends in the parking lot next to the Santa Monica Pier... and after the walk there are gonna be all kinds of booths for both humans and their dogs. I hear there will be massage, doggie yoga, music, food and all kind of giveaways.

This is an early bird activity... the walk is at 830am... registration begins at 630am that morning and is $35... and you get a Strutt your Mutt T shirt!!! Score!!!!

There are a ton more details on their site!!!! Check it out.

LobsterFest is Back!!!!

2010-09-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

This poster is so badass... loving their ad campaign this year.

Alright... so I will not be attending this years LobsterFest. I don't do the whole seafood eating thing. But as someone married to a carnivore I try to attend things like this for him. But... this year we went to the Crawfish Fest in Long Beach not too long ago... actually we would totally go to this.. the hubby LOVES Lobster... we just got a lot goin on this weekend... and Im not sure we can squeeze it in.

I know a lot of people who are attending this... and I know its gonna be a good time!!! Its in San Pedro, and parking is free. Its going to be a beautiful weekend.

And... its very reasonably priced:
$9 to get in.... yep $9 oh and if you print the coupon on their site.. you get $2 off... so go to their site!!!!

and for a Lobster Feast..its only $18.... That is a good price... Lobster is expensive...and that is a huge meal. But you get an additional 2.5 pounds of Lobster for the low price of $31

So what goes on at the Lobster Fest?

Well.. Pirates for one... yep Pirates... they will be running around... puttin on shows... and probably causing some piratey chaos.

Theres also live music, and performances and booths and food!!!!

Sounds fun!!!!

You should go check it out.

Im the worst blogger ever... I didnt even mention when...

its this Fri/Sat/Sun!!!!

The Last Cemetery screening of the summer!!!!! Oh No.

2010-09-15T08:09:00.000-07:00

And I didn't attend one screening this Summer.

Shame on me... well at least the hubby made it to one. I've been a busy Little Miss.... been working...and working on getting work.

Anyways, this coming Saturday is the last Screening at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.... and its is a doozy. They will be screening Night of the Living Dead. Yep, a horror flick... not for everyone... but should be a lot of fun to watch in such a large group of people, in such a place!!!!

Its always a good time... gotta go early cause these screenings are popular... and I have no doubt this one will be as well... oh and when I say early... I mean at least 2 hours...

sucks I know...

but the good thing... you can bring in blankets, low to the ground chairs, food, beverage, and yes that includes alcohol. So, you can eat while you wait and chat and stuff... meet some new friends as they wait in line...in front and behind you.

Oh yeah, one suggestion... it gets cold laying on the grass at night...so bring layers!!!

Gates open at 6:30pm

Move is at 8pm

Tickets by donation (Suggested $10)

Check out their website for more info.

Malibu Wines!!!

2010-09-14T11:00:00.001-07:00

Hey all...
Its been a while... I know...

But this post should make up for it... cause its awesome... it includes several really cool things.

1. Wine

2. Movies and or Music

3. Being outdoors

See... told you. The AWESOMENESS can now begin.

So... Malibu Wines.. in the hills north of Santa Monica
They do Wine tastings... ummm.. yummm...
each flight is between $10- $12 and includes 4 tastes.

They do tastings every day starting at 11am
Sun- Wed- open till 6pm
Thursday- movie night... so open till movies end
Friday and Saturday open till 9pm

The Movie nights are pretty cool... they are every Thursday at 7pm

Some of the upcoming flicks: The Maltese Falcon, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, BladeRunner and Singing in the Rain!!!!

If you want to get a wine tasting in before a film, make sure you get there by 5:30!!!!

Then you can do your tasting, buy a bottle, pull out a picnic and a blanket and get all settled in before the movie starts.

If Thursday is not your night... maybe a live music night?
Friday and Saturday they have live music at 7pm
Saturday and Sunday they have an afternoon show as well, at 1pm

Okay..so yeah... whos coming with me?
I am thinking an afternoon of live music... and some wine sounds good.

Be sure to check their website for all of their events and info on live music and movies.

Royal/T

2010-06-17T22:48:00.000-07:00

Royal/ T
I want to go there. Now.

This space looks A Mazing!!!!

it is rather new to LA, actually Culver City.

Royal/T is a cafe/shop/ and art Space all rolled into one.

Okay, So Royal/T is modeled after some cafes in Japan, there is one called The Maid Cafe (Meido Kissa). At this cafe the wait staff (women) wear maid uniforms. Okay a bit pervy I know. That is so not why I want to go. I want to go for the experience. Royal/T has exhibitions in it, as well as artwork from the owners collection, all the art is very contemporary, very japanese focused.

The food in the cafe is japanese, with items such as Vegetable Gyoza, Tuna Tataki, Grilled Miso Chicken and Green Tea Soba Noodles.

But....

they also have High Tea!!!!!!

FUN!!!!! it comes with desserts and pastereis on a 3 tiered tray... I mean come on......

they bring you your own 3 TIERED TRAY!!!!!! I am a nerd I know... but that is soooo cute.

can you imagine a super cute maid bringing you a pot of tea and a 3 tiered tray with dessert on it? Not to mention you are surrounded by great art and fun things to buy.

Royal/ T,

Where have you been all my life?

Swap yo stuff this weekend!!

2010-06-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

Okay,

So summer is here, and we probably did not do our spring cleaning.

Which means, you have stuff you want to get rid off.

This Saturday at the Noho PAC (Performing Arts Center)

will be a Swap Fest, The 2010 Frugal Festival Summer Swap if you want the official name!!!

Okay, so here is how it works

You got stuff: lightly used: shoes, clothes, CD's, DVD's, video games, jewelry, accessories, books, home decor

You want more stuff, cause we are human, and thats what we do.

So you bring your stuff, between 10am and noon on Saturday, and $5 and you can come in and swap stuff with others.

If you dont have stuff to swap... but you want more stuff.... then you bring $10 and you get stuff.

Everyone is given a reusable bag to shop with, YAY!!!!!

and there are a lot of prizes and such.

Not to mention this is good for Los Angeles.

All items not swapped at the end of the day will be donated to GoodWill.

Cheap day, shopping, free stuff, chance at a prize and doing good!!!!! My day is completed.

Oh and some of the prizes that will be raffled off are:

and Ipod

a 2 night stay in a Santa Monica Hotel, a nice little weekend by the beach!!!!

a Manicure

plus many more items.

Oh, and click the link above for directions, address, times and any other questions you have!!!

Take A Hike!!!!

2010-06-15T10:58:00.001-07:00

No Seriously,

Take a hike.

Why not, there are so many great trails here in SoCal there is bound to be one you have never been on before. There are some breathtaking views once you get to the top. Depending on where you hike you have great views of Mailbu and the ocean, great views of the city, great views of the Valley and beyond. One of my favorites is the hike up to the Observatory its a great one that is only about 3 miles round trip, and once you get to the top you have access to the observatory and all it has to offer. The hikes over in the Santa Monica Mountains are gorgeous, but tough. Once you get to the top though you forget about all the blood, sweat and tears you shed on your way up.

But the hike I am talking about today is I guess what you would call a destination hike. I have heard about this hike and have not done it yet, I plan on doing it this week with the hubby... cause why not!!!

Anyways, I am told there is a hike to The Giving Tree.

Yes.... The GIVING TREE!!!!!

I am intrigued...and now that the weather is super sunny I wanna go.

Here are the directions:

1. Off of Franklin turn north on Canyon Drive, it is one block East of Bronson.

2. Follow Canyon Dr. past the gates to Griffith Park, keep driving until you cannot drive any further.

3. Start the walking trail. ( I will update this with more info once I do the hike)

4. Apparently there will be a dragon on the right.

5. Keep going as you pass an open field.

6. You will see a small brook, follow the path as it winds around, you will be able to see the Hollywood Sign.

7.The trail should open up, keep going, just as you go around another corner on the right, on the side of the cliffs edge you will see the tree. The tree is overgrown, with branches touching the ground.

8. You know you have found the right tree when you see a red box at the foot of the tree.

9. Leave your thoughts, prayers whatever it is you would like to leave, with the tree.

I am super curious about this hike.

I dont think its a difficult one, but who knows I could be shocked.... I'll keep you posted on the hike.

I'm Excited I might take my book up there and read it to the tree.... but then that probably sounds a bit crazy.

Anyways.... Go take a hike!!!!

If anyone has any favorite Hikes, I would love to know about them, I'm trying to spend more time outdoors.

At work... on a Saturday

2010-03-06T16:32:00.000-08:00

Hey all.

Hows things with you all?

If you havent noticed I have a hard time keeping up with this blog when I am working.

I really have every intention of hopping on...but when I work I am working like a million miles an hour, and doing this for 12 hours a day...and all I wanna do when I get home is zone out to a good book, or some bad tv.

Now I know what you are thinking... isnt the name of my blog... DO SOMETHING... why yes it is.

So I need to do something, and I will...but I am not going to promise you I will be better...we have all been there before... we know what empty promises those are.

I will not utter those words... I am going to do stuff though. I need to have a life outside of my job, and I will. I also really need to go to the gym... thats step one.

Do something... go to the gym!!!!!

Anyways, I hope everyone else has been doin stuff. Movies, theater, going to the park, the beach, hiking... there are endless things to do here in this massive city.

This weekend I am going to a friend of mine, Andrews annual Oscar party... its a dress up party...not sure I can do it... not sure I can get all pertty and watch the Oscars...

I need to be comfortable... maybe I can just throw on a tie and have that count?

Alrighty people....

DO Something this weekend!!!

Okay... I know I am a flake...

2010-01-17T10:46:00.001-08:00

But I am between jobs right now... so I have some time on my hands...

todays post...yes its lame!!!

but it a promise to you...and myself.. because I need to make sure I am on board as well...

that I will not ignore my blog anymore... it is an important outlet for me...

A lot of cool stuff is coming up!!!!

So it is my duty to share it with you all.

So have a great rest of your weekend!!!

and I will be back later this week!!!!

Devils Night is at it again..

2009-10-23T12:27:00.001-07:00

Had to throw in an extra post for today, cause I just got the info.

Devils Night Drive in will be playing

A Nightmare on Elm Street tomorrow night!!!!

Its a drive in people, its halloween.. its an awesome combo if you ask me.

Heres the link with more info.

Backwoods Maze!!!!!

2009-10-23T08:50:00.000-07:00

Holla!!!!

Something wicked this way comes to Burbank!!!!

Apparently this things is getting rave reviews...and its in somebodies backyard!!!!!

Its a haunted maze, I mean how scary can they be?

You tell me...I'm a chicken and am easily scared... but the hubby likes scary so... scary it is...

Im posting this before I go, but I will be going this coming weekend, since its like a 5 minute drive from my amazing digs in Noho, and its FREE!!!!

The price is right, and I get an excuse to cuddle up to the hubby.

Okay.. back to the maze...

Okay so its in Burbank,

heres the addy:

1912 N. Pepper St.

Burbank, CA 91505

Its on: October 23rd, 24th, 25th, 29th, 30th and the 31st till 10pm, 11pm on Halloween

Not sure if its good for the kiddies or not, so I would say better safe then sorry...bye kids.

Anyways go with a group... or by yourself if you are brave as they let you go in with just your peeps to keep you guessing.

As its a mom and pops kinda thing I dont have a link...

but just trust me... its there... and I promise to do a follow up about it...

if you are lucky maybe the hubby will sneak our video Flip camera in and will get some gross footage of me shrieking....

Halloween is just around the corner....need stuff to do?

2009-10-22T20:37:00.000-07:00

Hey ghouls and ghosts...

I know... LAME!!!!

but I had to...

I HAD TO.

So, Halloween is a nearing, and we all want to have stuff to do.

For me its the kick off party for the season, so it has to be exciting.

So, I thought I would list a few ideas here leading up to the BIG DAY!!!!!

One way to get out and celebrate is:

THRILL THE WORLD DAY

Now you ask what is Thrill the World Day... and I say...

OH YOU KNOW, only the greatest day of days (besides Thanksgiving and Christmas.)

Okay... I'll tell you...

This Saturday the 24th at 5:30pm Pacific time... people around the world will all be doing the Thriller Dance!!!!!!!!

So head downtown and get your undead groove on, and rock to the king of pop.

Oh... MJ must be so happy... who knows maybe he'll actually stop by?

Heres a link with info on what and where, oh and links to places that might be able to learn you the dance.

The Stuffed Sandwich

2009-10-14T19:13:00.000-07:00

The “Hubby” here. So Ashleigh asked me to be her guest blogger for a bit because the television industry is soaking up all of her free time. I’ve been going through the many things I love having access to in Los Angeles and I keep coming back to….Beer. There is an endless cornucopia of beer varieties to be tasted in this world and I know where you can start.

San Gabriel is home to The Stuffed Sandwich, the gathering place for beer lovers. They carry more than 700 beers from all over the world. They always have 7 beers on tap that are rotated frequently and each month brings a different theme. There are a couple of rules:

1. You have to order food.
2. You have to bring your own glass.

Don’t order Miller Lite while you’re there, or the proprietor just might call you out. They’re open Tuesday thru Saturday – 11am to 8pm. They will keep you posted on upcoming events and specialty beers if you sign up for their newsletter.

Stuffed Sandwich

1145 E Las Tunas Dr.

San Gabriel, CA 91776

Melrose Market!!!!

2009-08-04T21:20:00.000-07:00

This weekend!!!
Get out there and go spend some money people!!!!

The info is below, regarding this awesome shopping oppurtunity.

MELROSE MARKET is a two-day pop-up market featuring 24 independent, up-andcoming
designers showcasing the best Los Angeles has to offer in fashion, t-shirts,
accessories, art and more. Come find great deals on the latest work from LAʼs most
talented undiscovered artists while enjoying finger foods and cocktails by Chef Eric
Greenspan (The Foundry on Melrose). A portion of all purchases will go to Art Share
LA, a community arts incubator that promotes cultural excellence and shapes lives
through, art, education and community action. Presented by Entropy Apparel.
This event is free to the public.
EVENT DETAILS
What:
Young designers pop-up market, free to the public
When:
Saturday and Sunday, August 8th & 9th from 10AM to 4PM
Where:
The Foundry on Melrose
7465 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Who:
Local, independent designers showcasing the best Los Angeles has
to offer in fashion, jewelry, t-shirts, art and accessories and selling it all
directly to the public.
• Finger food and cocktails by The Foundry on Melrose and Chef Eric
Greenspan.
• Portion of proceeds go to Art Share LA, a community arts incubator that
promotes cultural excellence and shapes lives through, art, education
and community action.
• Presented by Entropy Apparel.
For more information, email info@melrosemarketla.com
www.entropyapparel.com www.artsharela.org www.thefoundryonmelrose.com
www.melrosemarketla.com

I think that pretty much covers it...
but if it doesnt, heres the website.

Crawfish festival!!!!!

2009-07-28T06:42:00.000-07:00

Not really MY thing... but the hubby loves the crawfish.
I cant imagine eating them... but you know... some people like that kind of thing.

Anyways...
The 2009 Crawfish festival is almost upon us!!!!
Aug. 1-2 in Long Beach...

There will be all kinds of good ol Southern cooking, along with music, and dancing... and of course Crawfish.
So... even if crawfish is not your thing... but Jambalya is... Well.. you too should go to this...

Heres a link with more info...

(and yes.... the above picture is a crawfish in SF...I just thought it was funny)

Im Back!!!!! and this time I mean it (hopefully)

2009-07-27T21:35:00.000-07:00

Okay... So...
I got a job... with Long hours... and busy days...and I have been a terrible blogstress...
awful.
I am committing myself to my blog this time...
even if it means I get 3 hours of sleep a night...
I am committed.

I mean.. who knows more to to do in this crazy city then me?

So I promise to keep my blog updated... with at least a couple entrees per week, so you all will be in the know.

The Hubbys reunion

2009-06-19T06:01:00.000-07:00

Okay...
So as I wrote... last weekend was the hubby's 10 year reunion.
So.. we flew from Los Angeles, CA... home to tofu, Hollywood walk of fame, convertible hybrids, beach bikes, amazing sushi joints, and of course Denis Haskins from Saved by the Bell... to Mississippi... home to hurricanes, pigs feet, and FE MA trailers...

(okay I know I sound mean to Mississippi, its actually gorgeous there... tons of trees... old homes... some really cool old bars and restaurants...I just cant live there cause well... I just cant... I am way to open minded for the South... oh and I need to be able to find chicken in restaurants that isn't breaded).

Okay... so LA to Mississippi for the weekend... sounds like a lot of flying and not much hanging out in MS.... we know but the hubby cannot take off of work his movie starts shooting next week...
So we do it... horrible flights... I really thought we were going to die on the second flight... it was scary... the plane took a serious nose dive... and the flight attendant was on the floor in a ball.

Okay.. we get there super late... but we make it to the reunion.
I had a lot of fun, but there were a few things I would change about the reunion...
First off... CASH BAR??????? I thought we paid a lot of money to go to the reunion... the least you could do is have a open wine and beer bar... but whatever, we paid for our drinks, not the end of the world.

Secondly... maybe you shouldn't serve dinner? I think the better option... appetizers. They taste better and you can have a wider variety, or at least better quality food.

My third and final change... a microphone that is louder then the guests. It was funny... a few girls would yell at us and you could hear that more then the microphone.

Other then those three things... the reunion was pretty nice.
I got to know the hubby's friends from high school and I tried to get the embarrassing stories... but everyone said they didn't have any. Plus they all knew he would do something in film... but they were mostly shocked that someone had moved as far as California. That kinda shocked me... cause I know a ton of people from my hs days have moved all over the planet.

Alright... so thats about it for this post...
Talk you later!!!!!

Dear Blog...

2009-06-18T18:16:00.000-07:00

I Still love you... I really have no excuse as to why its been so many days since I posted.

I am sorry... Im not even that busy... I mean Im not a loser, I have friends and have plans... it's just that I just didnt have any inspiration the past few days to post to you.
I dont want to put anything up like you dont matter... cause you do... YOU MATTER BLOG! You matter!!!!

I promise to be better.

Reunion!!!!!

2009-06-12T03:10:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow at the crack of dawn, the hubby and I fly to Mississippi for his reunion!!!!
Then.. we fly back.

It should be fun... we got the hubby an amazing Calvin Klein suit that he looks awesome in.
and I got a cute little dress that matches (we didn't plan it, trust me... I tried on a lot of dresses... color was my last concern)
his suit. So... my plan is to be so Californian that people want to be as cool as we are!!!!

Dear god... please let them have put more money into then the people who wrote in sharpie on the sign above.

Apparently I have a reunion sometime this year as well... but we will see if anyone wants to see each other enough to plan one... I think they are just intimidated by my success. We will see if one comes to light... I have fears if it does its going to be in the gymnasium with a punchbowl and a bunch of folding chairs. Fingers crossed that I don't have to sneak a flask and a lazy boy in. Ill bring my ipod if that helps? (can you picture it... me carrying a lazy boy in... haha that image makes me laugh, in my head I have heels on... and some sort of crazy 80's updo....) Oh I make myself laugh...
I think its cause I am between film projects and don't see a lot of people so I have to entertain myself... and I have gotten really good at entertaining myself.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!!!!!
Go out into the world and have fun!

3 of a Kind Theatre

2009-06-11T14:44:00.001-07:00

For several years now some dear friends of mine have been very involved in a theater group, that really focuses on the artist.
3 of a Kind, is a group of artists who come together to work on their passions, whether it be acting, writing or directing.
The group meets once a week, and each week the playwrights of the group write scenes, that are then directed and acting by the group. At the end of the season, those who want submit a short play they have written and they put on a formal production of three or four of the plays chosen.

It is a very interesting idea, and I think its great. I mean how awesome to be part of a play that has never been done before? You are the character... you are the director... the writer... there is not another performance to compare it to... you are in charge.

Anyways... I am going off on my praise for the group... when I really want to let you know that they are performing this weekend!!!!
4 shows left. One Friday, one Saturday and two on Sunday!!!!
Go see it!!!!
Support these artists who are doing it for themselves, and not waiting for it to happen!!!!

I saw the show last weekend... they are very good... they have topics that we may not all feel comfortable talking about...
Thats what is so great, is that even though each piece is its own entity... you feel a unity between the three plays.

Go... enjoy live theater... its pretty inexpensive too..
$10 for students, $12 for all the rest of us folk...not bad... it costs more to go to the Arclight people come on...

Oh, and me and the hubby have a small part in the first piece as well.

Oh... and they have refreshments... and wine... you know Im a sucker for wine... but who isnt?
A play... and some wine... what a nice combo.

Oh.. and they will be auditioning for their fall season soon... so chek out the website for info about that... and more info on the play this weekend.

Oh and tell em Ashleigh sent you!!!! It wont get you a discount or anything... but I thought it was a nice way to end this blog.

Pasadena Chalk Festival

2009-06-11T07:47:00.000-07:00

Next weekend,
Fathers day Weekend Paseo Colorado, will hold its annual Pasadena Chalk Festival.

This sounds really fun.

What is it you ask?
Well artists from around Los Angeles are invited to apply, to creat a work of art on the sidewalks of Paseo Colorado.
Basically, the sidewalks become an art gallery.
They have all kinds of categories, so it makes for some interesting art.

The pictures above are some of last years winners!!!! See how cool they are? I mean... I'm lucky to be able to make a hopscotch with chalk... and that is just lines and numbers... I can't even tell you how much talent it takes to draw a lion that looks that amazing.

Its fun, and free!!!! So why not take a gander?
Who knows maybe you will be inspired to create your own

The Moth Story Slam is a coming up!!!!

2009-06-10T04:25:00.000-07:00

The Moth is a group focused on good story.
It started a long time ago when people would get together and tell stories to one another.
Now its in Los Angeles, and its pretty exciting. You can attend, and just listen, you can judge, or you can tell stories.
Each event has a theme, so people have some sort of focus, and it pulls the night together.

Heres some info on upcoming shows:

"HOME" on June 16th:
Host: Jackie Clarke

6:30 Doors
7:30 Stories begin
$6 at the door

at El Cid
4213 Sunset Boulevard, Los Feliz
(between Bates and Myra Avenues)

Prepare a five-minute story about HOME. Where you're from... your humble abode, your roots, your heritage or where your mama lives. Home is comfort, a refuge, domestic bliss! Or perhaps a dysfunctional swamp with no lifeboat in sight. Your zip code, your people, your culture, your pajamas.

There is no place like home.
"MAIL" on June 29th:
Host: Jackie Clarke

7:00 Doors
7:30 Stories begin
$6 at the door

at Air Conditioned Supper Club
625 Lincoln Boulevard, Venice
(3 blocks south of Rose Avenue)

Prepare a five-minute story involving a mailbox. Love letters, junk mail, hate mail, fan mail, Dear John, ransom notes, court orders, news from the admissions office. Think mail order brides, brown paper packages, test results. Take us back to breaking the seal on the letter that changed your life! Email, telegrams, parcels, chain mail and other special deliveries.

How it Works:
7:00 PM *sign up to tell a story, volunteer to be on a judging team or just sit back and listen. 7:30 (SHARP), we'll pick the first name and the show will begin. Each teller will have 5 minutes to tell his or her tale. After each story, the judges confer, and give a score. The teller with the highest score becomes our StorySLAM winner. The winner will compete with the year's other winners in our next GrandSLAM Championship.

Be Forewarned:
The Moth is NOT a venue for readings; it is a venue for tellings. No notes, papers, or cheat sheets allowed. Contestants are judged on sticking to the five-minute time frame, sticking to the theme and having a story that sticks -- one that has a conflict and a resolution.

Story tips:
No standup routines please:
The Moth LOVES funny people but requires that all funny people tell funny STORIES.

Steer clear of meandering endings:
Your last line should be clear in your head.

Start in the action and set up the stakes.

There is a lot more info on the website about other events, the history of The Moth, and podcasts.
Check it out!!!!

Randomness: BOYCOTTING!!!! You don't mess with me.

2009-06-08T05:41:00.000-07:00

I will NEVER shop at any Jo Anns again.
Nor will my husband who spends hundreds of dollars here a week on supplies.
I went in to buy some stuffing... there was a red sale sign on a bin of 20 oz. stuffing... for 2.99...so I grabbed the last 4 bags...and waited in a long line of people to be rung up at the register.
Finally an older asian woman rings me up...and I notice the bags are ringing up at 4.99... so I say oh those are on sale...
she says no they arent
I say Yes they are!!!! Go check the sale sign.
She does... she doesnt want to... but she does..
she comes back and says there is no sign..
So I go back to take a look... and low and behold... its gone!!!!
I ask if she took it down... she says no...
Now, people... I am not a liar... I saw a big red sale sign... with the price of 2.99...
I ask her again...and she still denies it...
I saw that freakin sign 10 minutes ago... the woman took it down and hid it... cause it is nowhere to be seen....
So.. I say fine.. I dont really care what the price is... thats not the issue...
when I get back she goes to talk to the manager... and I am at her register...
she tells him I said there was a sale sign and it wasnt there... I say it was... and that someone took it down... he yells across the store at me... in front of several customers..."I WILL NOT HONOR THAT!!!!" What the????
I worked several years thru college in retail... managers do not say that... I know customer service... you at the very least come and talk to the customer... YOU DO NOT YELL ACROSS THE STORE AT SOMEONE....
I said fine... just finish ringing me up, I want to leave...
I apologized to the lovely woman behind me who says she would do the same thing...
and I get my stuffing... take one last look at the stuffing aisle... for the red sign...cant find it and head out...

Really? did this just happen to me? Did this woman just hide a sign... and cause all this drama???

I literally got more angry as I got in my car... I literally had to sit in my car for 5 minutes for fear of being unable to stop myself from driving Eddies SUV into the Store.... probably wouldn't look to good on my part. I might look a little out of control.
But at least the SUV would be a good enough size to cause some major damage...

Anyways... yes I dream of revenge... but no I am not stupid... I will do it in a smart way... with letters to their corporate office... and by spreading my distaste for them on the World Wide Web!!!!

I had to call Eddie to calm myself down... and then a quick stop at Starbucks... to get a chai latte... a Venti... cause I needed it.

Now that I have had a couple hours to calm down... and gather my thoughts... I am still shocked at what hapened... Im not gonna lie... I know I can be a hard customer to deal with... I worked in retail, restaurants, at a college, on commercials, tv, reality shows, on movies, as a caterer, a babysitter, a volunteer.... Ive done a lot... and I feel like at the very least on my worst days... I have been honest, and a human. We all have our bad days... just be a decent person.
CAUSE YOU DONT WANT TO MESS WITH THE WRONG PERSON... And I may just be that person.

VCR Day!!!!

2009-06-07T04:04:00.000-07:00

So on my official holiday cheat sheet... it says today is

VCR DAY!!!!!

So in honor, I think we should all pull our VCR's out of the cupboard (thats where we keep ours)
and watch all of the old VHS's that we keep tucked away behind all the DVD's and BluRays!!!!!

I mean other then that, how do you celebrate VCR Day? Anyone?

But... my cheat sheet also says its Daniel Boone Day...

Apparently June 7th... not a very interesting day....

But hold on kids... tomorrow is
Upsy Daisy Day!!!!! Yah for June 8th!!!!!

Rose Bowl Flea Market!!!

2009-06-06T07:13:00.000-07:00

Next Sunday, June 14 the Rose Bowl will be hosting its once a month Flea Market.

Flea Markets are usually not the big... but this one... It's huge!!!!
The Rose Bowl Flea Market gets vendors from all over Southern California... and it makes
for quite a flea market.

There are tons of vendors selling:

Vintage clothes, antiques, art, food, furniture, new clothes, homemade goods and tons more!!!!
There are over 2500 vendor booths!!!!

I love going to flea markets, cause you never know what you are going to find. I have gotten some great art, jewelry and records at flea markets.
Some vendors will take credit cards... just make sure to take some cash for those smaller purchases!!!!

The flea market goes from 9am-3pm tickets are $8
For those heavy hitter flea marketers you can get in at 8am for $10
or even enter at 7am for $15...
But for the serious collector... for $20 you can go in at 5am...
THATS DEDICATION!!!!!! I love to shop... but not at 5am...

The Rose Bowl Flea Market is held every month, on the second Sunday of the month, so if you cannot make this one... there are lots more!!!!

The next one is July 12th!!!!

Another donut activity!!!

2009-06-05T16:55:00.000-07:00

This may be the best idea ever..

A wine tasting...paired with donuts. UMMMM.... Sign me up!!!!
Grace restaurant is doing just that!!!!

Heres some info on whats going down at Grace:

In honor of National Doughnut Day (June 5th), Pastry Chef Mariah Swan presents the
Grace Doughnut Tasting Menu available Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening.

Salted Caramel Doughnuts
Bourbon pecan ice cream, strawberries
2007 La Morandina Moscato d'Asti, Piedmont, Italy

Pistachio Doughnuts
Chocolate buttermilk marble ice cream, dried cherries
Croft Ten Year Tawny Porto, Douro, Portugal

Buttermilk Brown Butter Glazed Doughnuts
Warm rum spiced milk
1998 Chateau La Grave Sainte Croix du Mont, Bordeaux, France

Tasting Menu $18
Wine Pairing $15

Ummm.... Hello Pistachio doughnuts.... salted caramel doughnuts!!!!

This is worth the splurge... both the carbs and the dollars.

Its going on this weekend only...BUT...
Grace will have doughnut Wednesdays on a regular basis.

Starting at 6pm... doughnuts will be on the desert menu.

Heres a small list of the awesome flavors that are available:

Banna Fritter (filled)
Ginger Cream Cheese (filled)
Pistachio (filled)
Chocolate Whiskey
Buttermilk Brown Butter
Curried Sugar

You can also get doughnuts togo... you just have to order by the dozen.. and call ahead of time.
This is amazing...
Take advantage of this awesome find. We live in a huge city and should be happy our food choices are so
varied and marvelous.... I say this cause I just came back from Palm Springs a few days ago... and the food...
not so yummy... my favorite meal I had was at a fast food italian place at the outlets on the way back to
Los Angeles...

So... enjoy our many great restaurants we have here!!!!

Donut Day!!!!

2009-06-05T06:04:00.000-07:00

Many donut shops around the city are teaming up with the Salvation Army, and tomorrow Bakemark will make a donation for every donut purchased.

What could be better? I mean who doesnt love a donut!!!!

I am posting a short list of some of the local donut shops participating... but there are tons more across the states...
Just look for the red poster to the left.

LOMITA MISS DONUTS & BAKERY 1871 PACIFIC COAST HWY
LOS ANGELES ALEX'S DONUTS 6211 FRANKLIN AVE.
LOS ANGELES CORNER DONUT SHOP 10948 WEYBURN AVE.
LOS ANGELES DONUT HOUSE 3500 OVERLAND AVE STE 150
LOS ANGELES DONUTS U.S.A. 11624 VENICE BLVD,
LOS ANGELES MAGGIE'S DONUT 4377 W. PICO
LOS ANGELES SUPER DONUT HOUSE 7307 SUNSET BLVD
LOS ANGELES WESTDALE DONUT SHOP 2918 SAWTELLE BL.
MARINA DEL REY WENDY'S DONUT 4000 LINCOLN
SANTA MONICA D.K.'S DONUTS 1614 SANTA MONICA BLVD.
SANTA MONICA DONUT KING 1912 LINCOLN BLVD.
SANTA MONICA SANTA MONICA DONUT 2822 SANTA MONICA BL.
TORRANCE JON'S DONUTS 3127 ARTESIA BLVD
TORRANCE MISS DONUTS & BAKERY 1842 W. 182ND ST
TORRANCE DONUT DEN 4257 PACIFIC COAST HWY.
WEST LA WESTSIDE DONUTS & CROISSANT 11277 SANTA MONICA BLVD

Okay,
So now a little history on why the Salvation Army is connected to donuts.
This is the 71st annual Donut Day!!!!

The women of the Salvation Army who served donuts to the soldiers in WWI were volunteers, and the only female non military personal allowed on the front lines. Thats pretty risky... not sure if I would volunteer to serve donuts on the front lines...mojitos... maybe... donuts???? not so sure.

Lets all get donuts tomorrow... come on... donuts are like the cheapest food out there... what its $4 for a dozen?
Just do it... and if you dont want to eat them... take them to work, give them to your coworkers... who knows you may make your boss so happy he/she lets you out early for a nice weekend!!!!!

GO GET A DONUT!!!! Help the Salvation Army!!!!!!

I love this site!!!!

2009-06-04T18:09:00.000-07:00

Cake Wrecks... it kills a lot of time.

Its so simple... so smart... so funny.

A blog about cake disasters... like this one:

A cake that has the directions on how to decorate it... as the decoration.

Or this one:

Even the baby is trying to escape this cake. (SCARY!!!!!) ( What kind of event would you get this for? - a baby shower... are you insinuating that the baby cannot wait to escape the moms belly?)

How about this one:

It seems the decorator gave up and just said... hide it.

But its also fun to look at AMAZING, AWESOME and sometimes jawdropping cakes:

Heres a pretty awesome James Bond cake:

How about this adorable little ghost cake:

Now we get to the JAWDROPPING part:

Yes WallE is made out of CAKE!!!!!
I mean who could eat that? Its too amazing to eat.

So, go check out some Cake Wrecks...

LA Wine Fest!!!!

2009-06-03T18:49:00.001-07:00

Okay,

So I imagine by this point most if not all of my faithful readers, think I am an alcoholic. I post a lot about bars and drinking... I know it. But, I am not, I enjoy drinking... its fun, and a great way to be social. Wine tasting is super fun with a group, or can be a romantic weekend for two... plus wine can really have a great effect on your food!!!! Its amazing how the right food with the right wine can be a great combination.

That being said...
LA Wine Fest is this weekend.
and it sounds spectacular.

There will be A LOT of WINE!!!!! from hundreds of wineries. Reds, Whites, Pinks, Champagne and other liquor as well!
There will also be pairings... chocolate... cheese...
and FOOD!!!!!

Tickets are a bit pricey... but it includes your tastings
One day is $55, or $100 for two people.
So, if you go with a friend you can save $10!!!!!!

The event will be this weekend, at Raleigh Studios in Hollywood.
Check out their website for more info, and to buy tickets.

Belmont Tunnel Exhibition

2009-06-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

Graffiti has been around a long time!!! We dont like graffiti, or do we?

I am a definite believer that it has its place in the art world.

Well, for many years the famous Belmont tower in downtown Los Angeles has been an open canvas for
graffiti artists. Crewest gallery will be hosting an exhibition, The Belmont Tunnel Exhibition to be exact.

The exhibit opens June 6th, 6pm-9pm with a reception. The artists will be on hand this night.

Then on June 13th, 7pm-10pm there is a fundraiser event for TemptOne Foundation, $10 cover, with music. The TemptOne Foundation those patients with Lou Gehrigs Disease, its a great foundation take a look at their website.

And, the closing reception will be June 17th, 6pm-9pm with a slideshow presentation of the Tunnel thru its years.

Go to this... support local artists!

Palm Springs!!!

2009-05-29T06:18:00.000-07:00

The hubby and I are on our way to Palm Springs!!!
We are celebrating our one year anniversary... which I know was a couple weeks ago... but we are busy people..

So, we are off for a fabulous weekend of massage, laying by the pool and happy hours!!!!

I hope you all have a great weekend!!! And I will see you in JUNE!!!!!

BuFest

2009-05-28T20:57:00.000-07:00

Malibu will be hosting a music festival this weekend, the BuFest.
It sounds pretty fun!!!!
Saturday and Sunday from 11:15-9pm There will be music and good times!!!
Plus the Paramount Ranch is beautiful.

Heres some of the lineup:
Saturday:
Rock Nation
Adams Attic
Mozella
The Energy
David Baron

Sunday:
Reel Big Fish
Unwritten Law
The Elevators
From Jupiter
Noise Attack

Plus a ton more!!!

One of the cool things about this festival is that they are going to have a "zero impact" over the weekend, on the environment. They will be using biodegradable supplies, and generators that have the least carbon output. They also support the Cancer Hope Foundation.

Tickets are a bit expensive $35 for a single day, $50 for both... but just get a drink... relax... enjoy the music... and the fact that you are having a good time... and you are being good to the environment.

How to Make a Monster- The art and technology of animatronics

2009-05-27T07:10:00.000-07:00

This exhibit sounds really cool.

The Muzeo in Anaheim is hosting: How to Make a Monster. It is an interactive exhibit, good for the whole family that gives you a behind the scenes look at how creatures in movies are made.

There are workshops lead by industry professionals, over 30 creatures to get up close with, and models and sketches. One of the cool things is you can control some of the puppets.

This sounds fun, and I am way older then a kid.

I am totally gonna take the trek down to Anaheim for this.
Tickets are very reasonable too...
Adults $13
Kids $9
plus, if you buy your tickets on their website they offer discounted rates.

This exhibit runs thru September 6 2009. You can find out all the details you need on their website.

Cool Globes!!!

2009-05-26T04:41:00.000-07:00

Cool Globes is a traveling art show... with a heart.

50 Globes, made by 50 artists are traveling the country, and they are currently in Los Angeles at the
Exposition Park, Rose Garden thru July 23 2009.

The globes are all inspired by simple ideas to help the earth,
some of the themes are:
Plant a garden
Green communication
Water efficiency
Global Unity
Share a ride
and
Service your car.

There are many more globes on many more topics. From the pictures it looks very interesting, I can't wait to check it out.

Happy Memorial Day!

2009-05-25T02:40:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone is having a great day. For those of you 9 to 5ers... I hope you are enjoying your three day weekend.

In honor of Memorial Day, I wanted to post a few pics, of some of the awesome places we have here in the good ol U.S. of A!!!!

Venice Beach, CA- where everyone is welcome, and I do mean everyone.

New York skyline, NY- The city that never sleeps

Lombard St. San Francisco, CA- Only in the U.S. would such a street exist.

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota- Giant patriotic art.

French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisana- Southern hospitality at its best, and the beignets are not too bad either.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming- The most celebrated National Park we have... and it smells bad!!!!

Valley Greek Festival!!!! Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-22T01:40:00.000-07:00

What are you doing this weekend? You're staying in town cause traveling on a holiday weekend is expensive? Yep... me too!!!!
I wanna go to a BBQ, spend some time outside, and I def want to go to The Valley Greek Festival.

It sounds yummy!!!! I LOVE GREEK FOOD!!!!!! Hummus, pita, olives, chicken on sticks, baklava, spanakopita and...gyros!!! Bring it!!!

The Valley Greek Festival has all this and more, and a huge bonus, its FREE... the food is going to cost you, but to get in is FREE!!!!!
How awesome is that?

Plus there is more..
There will be Greek music playing all day. There will be dancers, church tours, cooking demonstrations and prizes.

So, why not go. Its at the St. Nicholas church in Northridge. Go, have lunch, learn something about another culture, unless you are Greek and then go and have fun with your peeps.

Man... just talking about this makes me really want a baklava.... I think I might go find me some.

HAVE A GREAT MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND!!!!!

El Bar!!!!

2009-05-21T10:02:00.000-07:00

Last night I met some friends at El Bar.
I like it.

El Bar took over the space, when Casting Office changed locations.
Its a nice bar, yes it is in a strip mall... but the whole strip mall received a face lift about a year ago, and the bar is quite snazzy.
The inside is dark, and has textured booths along one wall, while the other has a long bar with a boars head above it. Not a huge fan of the boar, but it adds to the atmosphere I guess.

They have wonderful signature drinks.

I tried their Mojito and it was tasty. I tried a friends Lychee Martini, and was shocked by how yummy it was. Drinks are average Los Angeles prices, about $8-$11 depending. They have a menu for the restaurant next door, so you can have food delivered to you. We didn't get the opportunity to order much, as we didn't know but they were hosting a party for the premiere of the new TV show Glee, and it was blaring...we left shortly after the episode started airing. We tried to stay and tough it out... but we kept getting looks when we had to shout at the person sitting next to us in order to have a conversation.

I will go back, and own the bar. Its one of the nicer, more upscale bars in the valley... yet it doesnt seem to have the attitude of the normal "swanky Hollywood bar."

Whales need love too!!!!

2009-05-20T08:19:00.000-07:00

Hey,

So, I came across this awesome sight that combines two things we humans love.

1. Whales
2. Taking pictures of ourselves and putting them on the internet.

Basically, this site Tails for Whales allows you combine your passions. This is how it works, you send a pic in like this:

PICTURE TO COME!!!!
See... see how I am making a whale tail with my arms? Get it? Tails for Whales... okay you do, moving on.

Okay, so you take a picture of yourself making a whales tail.
You send it to the site, once they gather enough they make a book of pictures of people across the world making whales tails. While they are gathering pictures for books to publish and put on government desks, your photo is becoming a part of a "worldwide people power movement." Your photo could be published on their website, as well as commercials, and news segments. See... one person can make a difference.

Another cool thing about the site is, that they have a link on other ways to do good. Thats nice, I like that.

Etsy... my second love.

2009-05-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

While trying to stick to a budget, yet trying to get things for the wedding that we really liked and felt represented us... I remembered my old friend.

Etsy.com

Etsy, is an awesome website, that works in the way Ebay works. Individuals can put up goods for sale, except everything is made by the sellers, and they don't have auctions... you just buy. Their tag line is this: Your place to buy and sell all things handmade. Excellent.

I cannot tell you how much I would buy if I had the money. I would seriously have a habit... a serious one. I love love love Etsy. I have gotten tons of cool gifts for people, jewelry for myself, handmade soaps, and hats.

Etsy is the place Eddie and I went to get our wedding bands. We wanted something economical in price, but rockin at the same time. So, I dug a little on Etsy, and came across Studiometalssmiths Shop. We got our wedding bands in the hammered finish. Studiometalssmith, is Kathleen Bosticks, shop and she is lovely to work with, super accommodating and fast. If you are looking for interesting jewelry I would totally take a look at her shop.

I have bought at tons of shops.. so today I will only talk about one more... but they all rock, and you have to give Etsy a gander. I swear you will be hooked.

One other shop that is great is Posh Totty Designz.
Yes, another accessories shop... but this one is different, along with the amazing jewelry the make... they make cuff links!!!!

For an early wedding gift I wanted to get the Hubby interesting cuff links. I wanted to get him cuff links that were Jim Henson inspired...since he is way into puppetry. I looked at tons of cuff links sites and nothing... mostly basic, or lame themed cuff links. So I went on Etsy and looked up the word "Kermit" I came across Posh Totty, and they had a set of Kermit earrings... and I asked if she could turn them into cuff links... and she did!!!!! Again, super fast, super accommodating.

Pace- Canyon dining at its best.

2009-05-18T06:28:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been to Pace?
(pronounced Pa Che, as in Che Guevara the revolutionist.)

If not you are missing out. The whole idea of the restaurant is to be as organic and natural as possible while keeping that fine dining italian food experience. Its very good, and good to the environment. Many of the ingredients are bought from local farmers markets, which are shopped twice a week to make sure everything is as fresh as possible. The meat used has no hormones in it. The water is served to you in reusable glass bottles.

The hubby and I have been wanting to go here for a couple of years, and just haven't. We have no real reason, its a little expensive with entrees averaging $22-$25, but not outrageous. I ordered an amazing chicken dish, and the hubby got the Swordfish... both plates were clean when we were done. We were both happy with our dishes. We also ordered the warm chocolate cake... one of the best decisions we have made in a long time. If you go here YOU HAVE TO ORDER THIS DESSERT!!!!!

Pace, is charming. Its tucked away in a hill, under a tiny little Hollywood Hills market (that has a wonderful deli counter, that makes great sandwiches by the way) off of Laurel Canyon. We sat out in the patio with candles and open windows. It was lovely. The place is a bit rustic, there are peace signs etched in windows, and on candle votives, each table has a natural colored paper on it, and crayons!!!! How fun is that... I dont think I have ever seen crayons on the table of a non chain restaurant... don't get me wrong I love me some Red Robin... but I typically stay away from chains when going out.

Pace is awesome, I can't say enough nice things about it. So, if you want to go out for a nice meal, head up to the hills.

I did almost forget to mention that we went to celebrate our one year of wedding bliss.

Its My Anniversary!!!

2009-05-16T04:34:00.000-07:00

May 17 2008...
Its an important date to me and the hubby.

We got married that date, in Burbank, with a ton of friends and family.
I loved my wedding... and since I am still a newlywed.... I am going to make this weeks posts Wedding centric... to share with you some of the awesome things we experienced in getting our wedding put together!!!!

But for this post, I will share some pics with you!!!! These pics are some that were taken in the photobooth we rented. Do this for a party... if you ever have the chance, it was super popular at the wedding... Everyone let loose in there!!! It was amazing.

You may be sick of seeing and hearing about the wedding... but come on... Its my blog... and I will do what I want!!!!!

So... until later.... HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to me!!!!!!

Have a great weekend!!!!

The Worlds Smallest Ren Faire!!!!

2009-05-15T04:14:00.000-07:00

Looking for something to do this weekend?

How about checking out The Worlds Smallest Renaissance Faire in North Hollywood?
Its tomorrow, May 16th at The Avery Schreiber Theater.

Tickets are $10, kids under 7 are free!!!!

It sounds fun, heres some of the stuff thats going on:

Performances:
Sirs Snapper and Buddy- Tasteful bawdy music and comedy. (Im not sure how something can be tasteful and bawdy, but I am definitely intrigued).

Los Ninos de la Tierra- Marionette theatre group.

Shakespeare Idol- actors on stage get judged... (I like it).

Academy of European Fighting Arts- live combat demonstration

Belly Dancing- Celeste a very sought after Belly Dancer will be performing

This is just a small list of perfomances there are many more.
And...
there will be Games!!!

Worlds Smallest Javelin Throw
Tug of War
The Worlds Smallest Boulder Toss
and more.

Plus, these other activities:

Tarot Readings,
Worlds Smallest Petting zoo (with a real bearded dragon)
Face Painting,
Worlds Smallest Round Table

Plus things for sale!!!! puppets, jewelry, artwork....

So now you don't have to drive East on the 210, deal with parking, and then walk a long way into the faire once you do park!!!!
this is a win win situation!!!

Heres a video... watch out for the giant... super scary!!!

Today is Top Gun Day.

2009-05-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

Its simple really...sort of like Talk like a Pirate Day!!!

Here are ways to participate:
1. Make your Facebook or Myspace picture something Top Gun related

2. Quote the movie as many times as possible

3. Download the Top Gun game if you have an iPhone or iTouch

Here is the website from the creators of Top Gun Day.

The guys behind today are also on Facebook, and Twitter so you can keep up with all of their shenanigans.

Oh, and I like Val much better then Tom... so you get his hottie black and white still.

Heres Top Gun on Ice...
Enjoy.

Art Party!!!

2009-05-12T08:34:00.000-07:00

Forth Magazine will be hosting a Paint, Wine and Cheese party this Friday!.
The event is free, and everyone is welcome.
There will be music, and drinks, you can draw on a collaborative Drawing wall, you can even get painted!!!!

Forth Magazine will provide all the stuff you need to express yourself through art, plus the wine and cheese!
All you need to bring is yourself and some pals!!!!!

This event is hosted every First and Third Weekend.
This weeks party will be at:

Paintlab
2912 Main St.
Santa Monica

From 6pm-10pm

Go, have fun, make something special!

P.S. - Paintlab, is a pretty cool space.
They are a walk-in art studio that provides everything you need to create something great.
Check out their website for upcoming events.

UPDATE on Angel City Drive In

2009-05-11T08:32:00.000-07:00

Here is the info I posted before, about this awesome event/business.

To give you a brief overview for those of you who might be a bit lazy and do not want to click on the above link.
Angel City Drive in is a drive in, that moves. They do not have a permanent residence, so they work with local vendors and you get to see a movie in a really cool location. All the info is on the link including prices and locations.

Well,
They have updated their summer schedule, and I wanted to post it.

GATES 7:00P SHOW 8:30P
May 23 - Ferris Bueller's Day Off (Family friendly night - kids 12&under $5)

Gates 7:30p SHOW 9:00P
June 13 - Priscilla Queen of the Desert - Co-promoted by Wig Out
June 27 - Bottle Rocket
July 11 - Wild at Heart

Gates 7:00p SHOW 8:30P
July 25 - Bugsy Malone - (Family friendly night - kids 12&under $5)
August 8 - Secretary
August 22- Fast Times at Ridgemont High

Gates 6:30p SHOW 8:00P
September 12 - Clue
September 26 - Bringing Up Baby (Family friendly night - kids 12&under $5)

You can get ticket info on the website.

Mothers Day Weekend

2009-05-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Mothers Day!!!!!
Here are some things to enjoy, and think about!!!!

Take your mama out!!!!!!
If you are not in the same city, send her some flowers.
Just show her some LOVE!!!!!!

This is one is pretty hilarious:

And the Holy Grail of all Mothers Day videos:

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

Desert Rose is yummy!!!!

2009-05-08T01:07:00.000-07:00

Okay so yesterday I had the pleasure of meeting my friend Maria for lunch in Los Feliz.

We met at a really cute place called the Desert Rose Restaurant.
One of the things that made us want to come here was this giant glass rose they have going up the front of their building. I have passed it many times, and always thought it looked cute.

The Desert Rose has a great outdoor patio with fountains, and umbrellas. There are a lot of tables both indoors and out, so if there was a wait, I would assume it wouldnt take to long to get a table. We sat outside, and it was a little warm. I really wanted something to drink that was refreshing. I highly recommend the Ginger Mojito. Super yummy!!!!! It hit the spot.

They have a great drink menu, with a lot of wine, and specialty cocktails which I cannot wait to try. There food menu is great too, lots of interesting choices.

We both tried to be good, and got great salads, but we weren't all good... we shared a warm brie cheese, crackers and fruit tray. It was delicious.

If you are looking for a new place to try for breakfast, lunch or dinner, this place is a good one. They also have happy hour M-F 5pm-7pm. Good deals!!!!

Bikes, bikes, bikes and more... silly hats?

2009-05-07T06:01:00.000-07:00

Atomic Cycles, a bike repair shop that can fix, paint, cutomize your bike, and they sell vintage bikes will be hosting
their Chopper Cabras 8th Annual Spring Thing, The Silly Hat Ride.

What is this you ask? Total and utter mayhem... filled with good times, and bicycles.

The event starts at noon, on Sunday May 31st, be there by noon or you will miss good times, and you should bring your own bike, and a silly hat. Now come on do not be afraid to wear a silly hat, there will hundreds of people standing next to you wearing silly hats.

Here is a list of whats gonna go down:

Super big figure 8 race:
A lot of small bikes trying to do 15 laps on a figure 8 circuit, all at once.

Pedal n' Puke race:
16" tall bikes, groups of 3 race to one end, get off their bikes do 5 spins with their heads on poles, the goal is to be the first to do 3 laps.

The Big, Bigger, Biggest Battle Royale:
This one is quick and dirty. 20 tall bikes will be in a ring of death. Each rider will have foam weapons.

The Demolition Derby:
This one will hurt. 12 bikes will have metal rams on the front of their bikes, no rules, just win.

after all these events, there will be a bike ride.

The ride will be a leisurely pace, with hundreds of riders riding the streets of North Hollywood. The idea is to sort of have a bike crawl. But, playing it safe is the goal.

When the ride is done, you will be back at Atomic Cycles for a bbq. A FREE bbq.

All of the events besides the ride are volunteer events, you need to sign up before the day of. Check out the website, and click on the flier for more info, and rules and what not.

This really sounds fun. I am so sad I will be outta town that weekend. I mean can you picture it... all these macho people riding tiny little bikes in figure 8's...with collisions happening left and right? Hilarious!!!!!!

I am very sad I cannot make this event!!!!!! Please go, have some laughs, ride a bike and have some bbq.

Wine, Jazz & Moonlight

2009-05-06T09:06:00.000-07:00

Tuesday evenings beginning June 2nd, Hollywood and Highland hosts their 6th annual Wine, Jazz and Moonlight Series.

I've never been, but I plan on attending several of these this summer.
Attending the evening is free.
It is hosted in the Central Courtyard of the Hollywood and Highland complex, from 7pm-9pm.
For a $10 donation you get two glasses of wine and cheese and crackers. You can also dine at one of the many restaurants
in the Hollywood and Highland complex, I mean what's classier then Wine, Jazz and a soft pretzel dipped in cheese? I'm being sarcastic.... but I love me a soft pretzel.

But really, the $10 goes to Project Angel Food. It's a good cause, the organization's mission is to nourish the mind and body of men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS, Cancer and other diseases.
Even I would skip the pretzel and go for the wine and cheese. Check out the Project Angel Food website they have many other things going on, auctions, comedy nights at the Improv (great comedy club if you have never been, one of the best in the city), ways to volunteer or donate money or time.

The website Wine, Jazz and Moonlight Series, does not have it's line up yet, but you can bet with a cosponser like KJAZZ 88.1, its gonna be good.

The Hollywood Bowl is back for its 2009 season!!!!

2009-05-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend The Hollywood Bowl opened their doors (and website) for ticket sales for this season.

They have an amazing line up this year.

Heres some of the ones I am totally down for going to:

June 21- Femi Kuti and the Positive Force, Santigold, Raphael Saadiq
June 26- Aretha Franklin
June 28- Adele, Etta James and the Roots Band, Jenelle Monae

July 7- Death Cab for Cutie with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Tegan and Sara, The New Pornographers
July 12- Ray LaMontagne with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Jenny Lewis, Blitzen Trapper

August 9- Reggae Night VIII
August 19- Pattie LaBelle
August 28/29- An Evening with Liza Minelli (now this is my wild card choice, this could be a really awesome performance)

September 24- Beastie Boys (ALREADY GOT MY TICKETS!!!!!)

A few of the Leased events, which means you can't bring in your own alcohol.

June 30- Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood
July 13- Incubus
August 16/17- Depeche Mode

Heres some videos from some of the above artists:

Santigold:

Adele:

Blitzen Trapper:

Liza Minelli:

If you have never been to the bowl, then you really should go this year. It is so much fun, you can bring your own food and drinks, glass bottles are okay. You sit in a beautiful setting, under the stars and you listen to great music.

I have only listed a few of the shows they are having... they have a ton more, music for every taste.

Last year I was lucky enough to see Diana Ross perform. It was amazing!!!!!!! The woman had about 5 costume changes every change more glamorous then the previous. She can sing!!!! Sisters still got it.

Go, pick a classic, an amazing talent take a bottle of wine, some cheese and fruit... and you have a perfect evening.

Funny Funny Website.

2009-05-04T05:56:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine, has a lot of free time at work. He kills that time by finding funny sites.

He sent the link to me a while ago, and I have been checking it regularly since.

It kills me.

Texts From Last Night, check it out.
I think the title of the site is pretty self explanatory, but to make this entry longer I will explain!

Basically, people can anonymously send in to the site, the texts they either sent or recieved, just include your area code.
There are some pretty funny texts on here. Taken out of context texts are pretty funny.

a couple examples:

(206) I am dying of drunk and no thats not a typo.

(516) If you text me again I will gut all your stuffed animals.

(916) I think I just saw a monkey walking a drunk guy.

(513) Dude someone changed all the contacts in my phone to I like eggs.

(631) Skipping work because i'm still too drunk from last night still. got home
at midnight and passed out in front of my door for 2 hours bc i couldn't find my key
(631) had to call my roomate to let us in. Passed out in my dress and found
the key on my hair tie-in my hair- just now.

So... they can get pretty funny, some are a bit dirty. Def an 18 an older kinda site. But its good times.

It makes ME laugh out loud.