Monday, December 27, 2010

Sunday Funday Rewind..





Cruisin' down Pacific Coast Highway..





marvelous monday.

I Love LA.

Working on the Universal lot has been amazing - where else can you see both The Grinch and Beetlejuice in the lunch line, on the same day?!

I'd rather take the horrible LA rains at 65 degrees over the snow and sub-zero temperatures of Alaska.

2012 reunion party/Kat' birthday was fantastic. I love how you can go 2 years without seeing someone and it's as if no time has passed at all. Such a great group of people!

Another 6-8 months since my last dentist appointment...and I am still cavity free!

The Conservatory has the best vanilla latte that I've had in a while...simply heaven (my reward for no cavities).

I am addicted to the seat warmers in my car.

I love being able to sit outside and drink my coffee again.

I came home wearing 10 pounds of Alaska "goodness"...how long will it take to disapear?!

Holidays came/went extremely fast this year. I loved spending it with the family though..as usual, spent Christmas day eating our Jewish breakfast of lox and bagels (as if I hadn't gotten enough of it up in Alaska) followed by the Laker game/turkey dinner at Carol and Rick's. I love our traditions!

Had such a great Sunday Funday wine tasting with Jeanne-Marie and Nick! Followed by Umami Burger, which my boss reminded me I had already eaten at before. So much for me trying to try new places!

Monday, December 13, 2010

marvelous monday.

This week was a complete blur....maybe it has something to do with only getting 6 hours of sunlight a day.

I ate at Snow City both Saturday and Sunday for breakfast....and of course ordered the same thing. A create-your-own omelet with Havarti cheese, tomatoes, bacon, and mushrooms. Hash browns and honey oat toast. Perfection!

4 boxes out....2 suitcases to go. This whole packing thing just makes me wonder where all this stuff comes from. But, 4 boxes is nothing in retrospect - some crew members shipped home 20+!

I went for a drive over by the coastal trail yesterday...the same trail that I once walked on is completely covered in snow, and the water that I looked out on has chunks of ice floating in it. But none the less, still breathtaking.

Deb and I went to happy hour at Simon and Seafort's last night and watched the sunset over the Inlet...absolutely beautiful, and full of so many colors.

My last night sleeping at the Captain Cook! It's been fun, but I feel I have officially hit my expiration date for Alaska.

My next post will be from the City of Angels...Goodbye Alaska, thanks for the memories!

Sunday, December 12, 2010

48 hours.




Goodbye, Snow City. My favorite spot in Anchorage.

As much as I thought I'd look forward to this day - it's a weird feeling. Looking back on my experience up here, it wasn't so bad. I met some amazing people. People who have left footprints on my heart, teaching me valuable lessons that will last a lifetime. I "gave up" 6 months of my life to come here and be a part of this movie. Although I hit a few bumps along the way, I sure did enjoy the ride. Thank you to all of you who shared this experience with me.

My first time witnessing a sunset at 4 in the afternoon. Mind you, the sun also didn't come up until 9:30 am! A magnificent sight.

Monday, December 6, 2010

marvelous monday.

The whole crew has officially left. The hotel is full of strange faces...yet I still look into Fletchers aka Cheers every time I walk by to see if I recognize someone.

My packing extravaganza has begun...I sent one box home today, and debated writing "Amanda's Shit, Part 1" in the reference section...but held back when I realized it shows up on the FedEx bill.

I cannot wait to get home to decent internet...I am sooo behind on all of my tv shows since nothing can load/buffer here in this hotel!

I had a buffalo sliders for dinner last night....and they tasted like hamburger meat to me.

New Years Eve @ The Hard Rock with all my favorite girls: BOOKED! Can't wait. It makes me smile to be making plans back at home with my girlfriends.

Started my New Years/Bahamas diet today...sans the slice of pizza I had for dinner tonight. We're just going to leave that part out.

8 degrees outside....8. How do people survive in a world where you can't sit outside and enjoy your coffee year round?! Or is that just something that I enjoy doing?

I finally, after 6 months...broke down and bought a Snow City travel coffee mug. I have been in there every Sunday and looked at the cups/tshirts and never bought one. I decided it was time.

Sunday, December 5, 2010

guilty pleasures.

I can't get enough of it....not matter how awful the plot line gets, I still watch it!

Maybe it's for the love of Chuck Bass.. and Nate Archibald.

xoxo.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

memories of you.


missing the bestie...and the best trip to vegas thus far!

something to ponder...

I spent quite a bit of time today thinking about how crazy life can be...

People come in and out of your life....some, you never see again - whether you knew them for a few days, or even a few years....but we can be forever changed just by knowing them.

Meaning....something you learned or took away from a person could stay with you a lifetime - whether it's words to live by or impacting your view/outtake on life.

This time around...I revisited something I've been told time and time again - you only live once. I might regret the headache in the morning, but if I had a good time and had my share of laughs and smiles...then it makes it all worth while.

This time around...I learned to never settle for anything less than butterflies. There are people out there who can make you feel on top of the world..I can't even describe the feeling, but I can say this- it's awesome.

This time around..I learned that you really can't control your heart and who it goes after...especially when you aren't even looking.

This time around.....I have the greatest friends in the world...but I already knew this! A shoulder to cry on at 2 in the morning, or even just the words of encouragement when you've hit a bump in the road....or the "just because" hello's that make my day.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

for the love of the sandals.

....also referred to as "jandals" by the Kiwis.

Monday, November 29, 2010

marvelous monday.

I know, way overdue...

2 weeks from tomorrow night and I'll be on a plane to the lovely los angeles. ecstatic? YES.

It is currently 21 degrees outside. With the wind chill - 0 degrees. 0. where AM I?!

I've been craving Alejo's like nobody's business...will definitely be on my list within the first week of places to go with people to see.

I have watched almost every single of Entourage since I have been here. Ari Gold is my hero.

Little Kiwi left last night....and I shed many tears. But just knowing him changed me and opened up my eyes so I will forever be thankful.

Being with an adopted family on Thanksgiving is nice, but nothing beats your own family traditions...and who would have thought Hawaiian roles at dinner were so important?! Oh wait, my family. I love and miss them dearly.

I spent so much time laying in bed the past four days that my back actually hurt.

Weird feeling to be in a movie in wrap on location. They all leave, yet I'm still here living the same life but without them, and it feels so wrong..as if something is missing.

I miss my sandals.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Missing the besties..

Oh, Alaska..

This movie has both physically and emotionally drained me...but met some amazing people along the way.

The crew has become family away from home, with the hotel bar, Fletcher's, being our own version of Cheers.

The animatronic whales being used in the movie are the cutest things...and I have fallen in love with their Kiwi operators.

When I got here, I talked about the 24 hours of sunlight and how hard it was to get used to. I'd take that any day over what we have now - 7 hours of daylight!

Lack of sunshine really brings down my mood.

After living up here in the tundra, I can totally see why people will pay a fortune to live in a dump but be in the lovely LA.

This state is so large and spread out that you can drive for 5 hours and still have the same scenery and made zero progress on a map.

I can no longer think that 60 degrees is cold - there is nothing like seeing 12 degrees (yes, 12!) on the car thermostat.

In my 25 years of living, I had never seen snow fall until about a month ago....and it's kinda magical.

Never did I think de-icing the car windshield would become part of my nightly routine.

Ice is much slippery than it looks.

There is no CW Network broadcast from the hotel. Really Alaska?! Xoxo, Gossip Girl Fanatic.

This state is in dire need of a Trader Joe's.

I miss my sandals. Every single pair of them.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Alaskan Summer Wrap Up



Kenai River float trip: a.k.a. white water rafting for wussies like myself.




Yes, a real life grizzly bear not found at the zoo! As close as I ever want to be to a wild bear.

Perfection from my hotel window.

Monday, August 23, 2010

Sunday, August 8, 2010

love is in the air


Congrats to Cory and Melissa!




so happy for these two.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Monday, August 2, 2010

marvelous monday.

happy august!

bear tooth grill....can I just say, I had the most amazing ahi tacos. ever. perfectly seared ahi, guac, and some pico salsa in a flour tortilla...I am making myself hungry just writing about them.

the ever-so-changing weather in the city. from sunny and "slightly" warm to pouring down rain within a matter of 15 minutes.

margarita friday. not a regular thing, but the group of us had a blast. and had some amazing nachos (sans the jalapenos, we know I'm a wuss and can't even stand a seed on my chips).

the arctic thunder 2010 air show on saturday. i'd never been to an air show before, and it was quite the outing! loved the blue angels flight show.

even better -----> watching the blue angels trial run friday afternoon from the anchorage daily news parking lot...it was like our own private show.

getting sunburned at the air show. i as so stoked to see some sun...passed out for a snooze on the concrete...and woke up with red marks. didn't even bring sunscreen to this state! but man, did the sun feel good!

eating everything in sight at the air show...it was like a carnival...why do i decide i need hot dogs/funnel cake/smoothies just because they are there?!

absolutely beautiful day in seward...complete heaven.

getting suck behind a motor home on the 2 lane highway....and watching the thing try to speed up when I am trying to pass it...really?! wow.

wildlife cruise out into the Alaskan gulf! such a good time. the boat only had 20 people on it, so perfect!

my obsession with whales....it continues. i am so memorized by the things...we had one swim right up to the boat and scared the living daylight out of me. i wasn't expecting it and all of a sudden...there she blows!

the fantastic mexican restaurant we stopped at on our way home. close the the hotel. no line. amazing food/service...will i be back? oh, you know it. maybe i can have them catch on to the whole taco tuesday trend!

Monday, July 26, 2010

marvelous monday (catch up session).

Yes....an entire month's worth.


The natural beauty of Alaska.

Being asked if I was "one of the movie people" on my taxi ride to the hotel - I guess I don't look like I'm from around here!

My orange Toyota Matrix rental car - can spot the thing from anywhere!

The ocean view from my hotel room...could I have asked for anything better?!

18+ hours of daylight...I won't go as far as saying sunlight considering I haven't seen the sun in days. My first night here I woke up in a panic at 3 am thinking I missed my alarm since it was so bright out!

The locals idea of a place that is "far away" - 20 minutes.

Open roads....fresh air....no traffic...vacant land.

Snow-capped mountain view from the office window...breathtaking!

Working across the street from Costco...I now go there at least twice a week.

Clam chowder...everywhere! (Don't worry JM, nothing beats clam chowder bread bowls at Pier 39 with you!)

The seaport town of Seward...nothing like seeing a sea of sailboats with snow covered mountains in the background!

Stellar sea lions at the Alaska Sealife Center in Seward...they were huge! Never been so close to a sea lion before.

Hippy Fest (I'm sure it had a more legit name) in the town of Girdwood. My favorite part was their method of keeping the kegs cold - just dump em in the river!

Alaskan White Ale...quite possibly my new favorite beer. Also on draft at almost every bar! And has a little polar bear as its topper!

Glacier and Wildlife Cruise...bald eagles. whales. sea otters. glaciers. The day just got better and better!

Realizing how frozen my hands were on the glacier cruise - a crew member pulled out a chunk of iceberg and when I touched it I couldn't even feel it. that. cold.

Being close enough to the humpback whale and her baby that I could hear the blow when they surfaced.

Real sea otters are just as cute and precious as the beanie baby version I had has a kid.

Watching the glacier "calf"....also known as white thunder. Nothing like seeing a piece of the ice just collapse into the ocean.

My dermatologist experiences up here in Anchorage....never did I think that I'd come face to face with their receptionist, Bristol Palin.

Saturday - July 17th. The most beautiful day we've seen here in Anchorage. Sunny, blue skies. Spent on a bike ride with Jill and Laura - wind blowing through my hair...I was in heaven.

Peggy's. This major hole-in-the-wall restaurant on the way to the office where the accounting department (plus Chris, our adopted member) have become regulars . The food is fantastic! And the help....definitely has character.

Hiking....in the mud. 47 degrees this past Saturday (these people call this summer?!). I saw a moose and her baby. Came home soaking wet but was worth the entire 3 hours!

Snow City...a cafe around the corner from the hotel that I have fallen in love with. The food...mouth watering. The ambiance...amazing.


Sunday, July 18, 2010

The Last Frontier




My residence for the the next 6 months.
Ocean view from my room...absolute heaven.


First weekend excursion: Seward, AK - a seaport town about 2.5 hours south of Anchorage.
Simply beautiful..nothing like seeing all the boats docked in the harbor with the snow capped mountains in the background.



Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise.
Whales.
Dall porpoises.
Sea otters.
Icebergs.
Pure perfection.

Monday, June 21, 2010

marvelous monday.

...FROM ALASKA!

Getting the 11 am phone call from my boss informing me I started my new job Tuesday and was flying to Alaska Monday. nbd.

Discovering Urth Caffe on Beverly Blvd. Such a cute little place! Has a garden to sit in and delicious food/bakery, highly recommend! Crew members were always turning in receipts to this place so I figured it was about time I checked it out!

Spending the entire week around the corner from Sprinkles Cupcakes and not once did I give into temptation!

Having dinner with just my dad Wednesday night...always nice to just have the two of us every once in a while.

So You Think You Can Dance..Kent was amazing! So much heart in that little guy!

LAKERS! Such a great series! So glad I was able to enjoy the final game with the old 2012 crew..definitely a good time!

Operation Pack Up My Life....yeah, didn't even start until Friday night, circa 10 pm.

Names of Stars! Scott's band performed Saturday night at The Mint...such a great turn out, music was great. Loved his opening band - Latch Key Kids. Definitely on iPod repeat. Streets of Gold is my new summer anthem.

A perfect Father's Day - we all went out to Aunt Carol's house...layed in the pool, bbq'd.....perfect SoCal day!




Wednesday, June 16, 2010

post secret fun.

Monday, June 14, 2010

marvelous monday.

my favs!

having the entire week off. I didn't even know what to do with myself! much needed R&R.

sleeping in every. single. day.

My new camera...just in time for my big adventure!

another spotting of the grilled cheese truck! showed mom what she was missing out on - she of course thought it was wonderful!

did not love the 405 being CLOSED on Wednesday - yep, definitely took me over an hour to get to Sony. Ridic!

celebrity sighting of the week: Alexander Skarsgard...hello!

self control....going up to the outlets and buying absolutely nothing!

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE....season is off to an amazing start, loving the 10 (11)contestant/SYTYCD all star mix!

The attempt to see Beetlejuice in the Hollwood Forever Cemetery: epic fail. Bucci and I got there over an hour early, but obvi wasn't enough...gates closed, oh well!

finally watched Inglorious Basterds...according to Netflix, I've had it since April 28th...ouchy! Great movie, definitely recommend it!

My martial arts class...where have I been all these years?! Such a great energy release.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Weekend Update

7. Take a self defense class

not a whole lot to say, except....why didn't I start learning a few moves years ago?!
definitely enjoyed this and will continue to take a class or two when I can!


23. See a movie at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Bucci and I attempted to see Beetlejuice at the cemetery last night....and so did the rest of Los Angeles. We got there around 7 and didn't get in...oh well. Maybe next time! Definitely was one hell of a night - between not getting into the cemetery and then trying to go see a movie at the Archlight to find out the only available seats were in the front row and separated by a handicap chair....yeah, we just came home.

Hopefully our tomorrow afternoon trip to the Getty Villa will be more successful!

Monday, June 7, 2010

marvelous monday.

my favs!

Lakers killin the Celtics in Game 1! We won't talk about Game 2....but Game 1 was amazing!

Officially wrapping out the Bad Teacher Accounting office. Nice to be done!

Abbot Kinney's First Fridays.....First of all: Where have I been all these First Fridays?! Was such a nice night to walk the streets of Venice!

The Grilled Cheese Truck....wow. Where else can I find a brie, honey, and sliced pear sandwich on cranberry walnut bread that is 1. served off a truck and 2. under 8 bucks?! Heaven.

Spontaneous Jeanne-Marie comes to LA trips...made my weekend!

Pink Taco Happy Hour! Monday-Sunday, 3-7...who knew?! So Glad I tried this place out!

Finding a cute summer dress (that I don't need and won't even be in Cali to wear) for a whole $5 at H&M

Watched Dear John Sunday night...I have officially cried in every single Nicholas Sparks book-turned-movie I have ever seen.

2 am earthquakes...no big deal.

Still being awake at 2 am to feel the earthquakes...yes, trying to break my 10 pm bedtime!

My first Monday in 2 years that I didn't wake up to an alarm...feels so good/weird/I could get used to this!

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Chillin at the W..

good times with great friends make the best memories.

marvelous monday (tuesday edition).

I figure I'm off the hook this week since Monday was a holiday!

Finishing a bottle of perfume that I've had since I was a senior in high school..took long enough!

Jack Johnson on the Santa Monica Pier....so amazing, I loved every minute of it! We were so close...it was so worth the pain my feet were in from standing for 2+ hours.

Burgers and beer (Alaskan Ale, getting myself ready!) at Father's Office with Mia and Jamie...followed by lattes and dessert at La Dijonaise...soooo stuffed, but soooo good!

Having absolutely nothing to do at work...yes, rather boring but so nice to be able to breathe again!

Using my free work time to do some internet shopping! Damn the Victoria's Secret Semi-Annual Sale.

Driving down PCH....took Andrew up to Malibu Friday afternoon and it was absolutely beautiful.

Cabo Happy Hour....2-4-1....no more needs to be said.

Celebrating Kristen's 25th birthday at the W in Westwood! So nice to get everyone together and be able to get away!

Spotted at the W Pool lunching away: Mr. and Mrs. Governator.

Taking Andrew and Co down to Hollywood...loved all of the characters dressed up on Hollywood Blvd..and crossing another item off my list!

Spending Memorial Day at the beach with my brother! Toes in the sand, nowhere else I'd rather be.

Love me some 3 day weekends....amazing how that extra day can really help charge the good 'ol batteries!

Monday, May 31, 2010

Hollywood Tourist? Check!


16. Be a tourist on the Hollywood Walk of Fame


Wednesday, May 26, 2010

marvelous monday (wednesday edition).

been a hectic week, ahh!

loving how my wisdom tooth was bothering me all weekend then suddenly no longer hurts when I go to the dentist. Of course.

DOOGIE on Glee! He was fantastic as usual! Love how I also watch him on How I Met Your Mother, yet still call him Doogie...some names just stick with people.

how easy it was to take my wisdom tooth out. Seriously took 5 minutes! Another 20 to numb the thing, but was no big deal at all....I am already mentally prepared for the next one to come out!

Going to the Science Center down at USC. I hadn't been since I was a kid, and forgot how cool some of the stuff in there can be! Also went and saw Kelly Slater's The Ultimate Wave in 3D at the IMAX. It was great! The 3D make me feel like I was sitting there in the water with him, ready to catch the next wave.

breakfast burritos. Christopher and I got burritos on Sunday morning....absolutely love them! Haven't had one in a while since we don't have catering anymore.

Watched Crazy Heart with Jeff Bridges on Sunday...definitely worthy of his Oscar! Fantastic performance

Sunday, May 23, 2010

JACK...ON THE BEACH!




tomorrow! soooo excited!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

marvelous monday.

....Tuesday edition! Yesterday got a bit hectic, sorry to let you down (JM)!

Yet again...Starbucks Happy Hour! Definitely took advantage of this spectacular deal not once, but twice last week! Even tried something NEW! Double chocolate chip with vanilla bean frap, simply amazing.

Whitney getting a teaching job! So proud of her.

GLEE! Loved loved loved the songs they did this past week - Jesse's Girl was probably my fav! Can't wait for this week's episode!

Being able to assemble a bankers box in under a minute. I can't believe this show is almost finished and we are packing it all up!

My epic fail of the week: Friday night. Christopher and I drove through In-n-Out, and I couldn't have been happier to sit on the couch watching TV and eating my burger. Going to take my first bite, I feel instant pain in the upper right section of my mouth. Thank you wisdom tooth for ruining my Friday night-present moments, I cannot wait to have you taken out this Thursday afternoon!

Thanks to all of the drugs I took to numb myself up Friday night, I was able to sleep in until 9 am on Saturday...longest I've slept in in months!

Christopher washing my car. His random acts of kindness always take me by surprise!

What is going on with all of this rain in May?! I feel like I am living in Seattle or something. I actually wore SHOES today! My sandals are going to feel so neglected.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

california girls.

I am so in love with Katy Perry's new song.

and it is SO cheesy!

"Sunkisssed skin so hot we'll melt your popsicle..."


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTVJTt-Gfx8&feature=related

Monday, May 10, 2010

marvelous monday.

highlights from the week!

GLEE! This week's episode was fantastic! I loved all of the songs, and the ending of the episode where all of Rachel's guys go against her! I know, I'm so evil haha. I feel she sorta brought that upon herself - almost as if she's only dating the new guy to make Fin jealous.

Sad to say I spent pretty much the entire weekend in bed with the flu - no fun! But, I guess with this flu going around the office I was bound to get it. My body is stiff today from laying in bed all weekend, but glad I was able to get in some much needed rest!

In my flu state/not leaving the couch this weekend, I discovered the show Modern Family. Where have I been all season!? The show is hysterical! Definitely setting the DVR for a series recording on this one.

Starbucks Happy Hour. I saw on TV that Starbucks is doing a promotion until the 16th where ALL of their fraps are half off from 3-5! So, Christopher and I went on Saturday afternoon (in my sickness and all) and got 2 Frap's for $4! And he even splurged and got a Venti- now that's what I call a steal! Obvi I'll have to go back this week before this amazing deal ends!

Seeing the happiness on my mom's face knowing that she didn't have to do ANYTHING yesterday - no prep work, no cooking, no clean up. My cousins and I did it all - her and Aunt Carol didn't do a thing, and I loved it! Scott brought appetizers, Bryan did a fruit salad, and I made Jeanne-Marie's pasta salad, kabobs, and some chocolate covered strawberries for dessert. Everything turned out great - will post pics soon!

Realizing that at 24 years old, I still cannot use hair rollers properly. Yep, had a flashback to 11 year old me yesterday and got about 5 of them stuck in my hair. As my mom said to me, "Never did I think I would spend an hour of Mother's Day helping my 24 year old daughter untangle her hair!" Note to self: Stick to the curling iron.

Monday, May 3, 2010

marvelous monday.

highlights from the week!

First week of wrap...can't believe how fast this movie flew by! I felt that with this movie being significantly smaller than the others I have done I was able to grasp a better concept of the big picture - I was able to see what was going on in all of the departments.

SO disappointed in Glee this week! I hardly knew any of the songs and thought it was just slow..hoping this week's episode will be much better!

The baked mac n cheese at Rush...Mia had never had it, so Thursday night I introduced her to it. Amazing, and worth every calorie!

Lemon drop martinis....lemonade, but for grown-ups! Had one at Rush, completely took the edge off!

Realizing that the Starbucks Caramel-Light Fraps are also light in flavor....they skip the caramel decoration all along the sides of the cup! No deal in my book.

MY NEW CAR! I wrote all about it yesterday so I won't repeat myself, but I absolutely love it! Couldn't be happier with my choice.

Riding my beach cruiser....Dad and I rode our bikes to go get frozen yogurt (yes, I know the benefits of the bike ride were canceled out by the yogurt, but somehow felt better about getting yogurt since I rode my bike).

Sunday, May 2, 2010

My New Ride!




25. Buy myself one expensive item in remembrance of my first 25 years


My 2010 Honda CRV!
I can't even begin to explain how excited I was to get a new car...I'd been driving my last one since the day I turned 16, and my mom had had it for 7 years prior to that...so, it was definitely time. I absolutely love it! I get excited over little things that just come as standard features on cars now - like a clicker to unlock the door! Such a novelty for me. I made sure I got a sunroof and heated seats (why am I hoping it's cold outside soon so I feel the need to use this feature?!).
Dad and I picked my car up Friday night...took about 3 hours to sign all of the paperwork. I didn't go too many places this weekend, but felt like I was driving like a 16 year old again. I have no idea how hard to break or how much gas to give the car...hoping I get the hang of it soon!

Monday, April 26, 2010

marvelous monday.

my favs of the week!

Madonna episode of Glee - words cannot describe how amazing this episode was! I absolutely loved it - from the cover songs to the storyline, I couldn't get enough! Can't wait to see what's in store this week!

My chocolate chip cookie from Pitfire Pizza - yes, again. So amazing that I couldn't say no! Mia even picked up a couple for herself and her roommate - you cannot resist!

Catching up with friends you haven't seen in half a decade.....I met up with Kenny on Thursday night, and I seriously hadn't seen him in over 5 years! I love how we can pick back up right where we left off, as if no time has passed at all!

Last day of filming on Bad Teacher was Friday! I can't believe how fast this project is going by - feels like I just started! Having a blast every step of the way though!

spending Friday night in to make dinner and watch a movie with Dad. We made Chinese food and watched The Lovely Bones. We had both read the book, so it was interesting to see how it was portrayed as a movie. Overall was pretty sad, and of course I liked the book much better!

BBQ and pool party with the girls! Kelly and Jim made these amazing kabobs, sooo good! And of course Kelly's bartending skills! Amazing cran-lemonade vodkas!

The modern bowling alley - you know, the kind that has a fancy bar in it, big TVs everywhere, and every hit song of the moment being played in the background. We went to Strike in Tustin for Heather's birthday on Saturday night...such a good time! I actually bowled a strike~yes, just one!

Baseball games...Eric and I went to the Angel/Yankee game Sunday - I love being at the stadiums, such a great vibe to be sitting there in the stands with all of the fans! I hope to go to many more this season, I've been slacking the past few years!

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Go Halos!

19. Attend a major league baseball game

Eric took me to the Angel game today - and they were playing their big rivals, the NY Yankees. Halos won 8-4! The weather was perfect - mid 70s with a slight breeze - couldn't have asked for anything better! Obvi I will always rep the Dodger Blue, but had a blast today!

Monday, April 19, 2010

marvelous monday.

my top favs!

feeling "touched" by the characters in life unexpected...really?! it's a TV show, and not even that great of a one! still, week after week...there I am. first season complete, so at least I won't be talking about it for a while!

being okay with the fact that Chuck and Blair are no longer together on Gossip Girl. I loved the bad-ass-before-Blair-Chuck way better than this new 'sensitive' Chuck.

discovering new restaurants...Mia and I tried out Pitfire Pizza on Thursday night, and it was great! We ordered the Burrata pizza, and it was unbelievable...I thought it wouldn't be (burratta cheese, caramelized onions, arugula..didn't sound appetizing). Service was great, sangria was even better!

sleeping in...even though sleeping in for me is only until 8 or 9, I forgot how great it felt! Slept the entire night through on Friday, didn't wake up once!

$12 tops from Forever 21...Since I am a klutzo, I can wear it a few times and not be upset when I spill my coffee on it and it stains!

after 6+ months of reading, I finally finished Eat, Pray, Love. Didn't love it, didn't hate it. My final verdict.

car shopping with dad....going to make the biggest purchase of my life soon!

Costco hotdogs...can you really go wrong for $1.50 dog and drink?! Amazing.

Friday, April 16, 2010

TGIF!


Saw this on PostSecret...made me laugh.

Happy Friday!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

wednesday night blues.

I had some amazing Indian food for lunch...nothing too exotic, only chicken curry. But wow.

Finally received Precious on Netflix. I love how that movie has been in my queue since it hit theaters, and brought it to my #1 slot as soon as I could...yet, I still got the "very long wait" on it. I'd love to know just how they decide who gets what and when!

just been a blah week...I feel like there's something missing and I can't quite put my finger on it.

Clam Chowder and Vino

What I weekend I had...

8. Go on a road trip

13. Go wine tasting

17. Visit Pismo Beach, CA




Whitney and I met up in Pismo on Saturday - something we've been talking about doing since we were 18...finally made it!
We even splurged and got ourselves an ocean view hotel room. We had a perfect weekend-a little Splash Cafe mixed with some wine tasting..and an excellent Italian dinner!

Splash Cafe..the best clam chowder I have ever had, hands down. I don't know what it is about this place, but it beats Boston and the Warf. Great way to start out our trip! Line was around the corner as always, but well worth the wait!

Wine tasting was a spur of the moment activity, but so glad we went. Found a couple of wineries up in SLO using the friendly 'Central Valley Wineries Map' we found in our hotel. Our first stop was Edna Valley Winery. The atmosphere of this winery was great - absolutely beautiful. The wine - eh, not so much. Both Whit and I enjoyed the white wine, but their reds had quite a bit of spice/pepper flavor. We went up the road to the Tolosa Winery. This winery was very modern looking. I felt like I was in a posh new club! The wine here was wonderful. I liked everything we had - definitely recommend!




Tuesday, April 13, 2010

GLEE!


beyond ecstatic!

you know where I'll be tonight.

Monday, April 12, 2010

marvelous monday.

favs of the week...

Chocolate chip cookies from the caterer- I know, I am in love with them. They are amazing! They come from Pitfire Pizza. Obvi I would recommend them to anyone - they can make any day brighter!

Falling asleep to the sound of the rain on Sunday night.

Reading tabloid magazines....I swear it's only for the pictures!

Crossing not one, but four items off my 25 list this week! - Pictures of Pismo to come soon!

The bread bowl clam chowder from The Splash Cafe. Best I've ever eaten...hands down.

Solo road trips....just me, the road, and rockin' out on my iPod.

Shocking myself when I realize I still know every single word to songs on my iPod that I haven't heard in years...a little Backstreet Boys mixed with some Third Eye Blind..my own version of "I Love the 90s."

My new DKNY apple perfume...made the huge switch from green to red.

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Tabloid Eatery? Check.

4. Eat at a restaurant talked about in the tabloids

With my 25th birthday being a short 6 months away, I decided that I needed to get a move on my "Under 25" bucket list...

Destination: Katsuya.


Friday night, Mia and I ventured down to Katsuya at LA Live. With the help of opentable.com, we were able to score an 8:30 reservation. When we got there, the place was only about half full - a bit of a shocker for a Friday night!

Definitely an ambiance place..but then again, what exactly did I expect going to a place that the girls on The Hills go to?! Mia was such a champ coming with me..she doesn't care for sushi, but knew this type of place was on my list and decided to give it a try. I ordered spicy tuna rolls (of course) and an order of yellow tail rolls. Mia was brave enough to try them! She ordered from a fixed menu that same with miso soup, a teriyaki steak, and dessert. Her steak was amazing, I definitely recommend it! My rolls were good, but nothing out of the ordinary. For dessert, Mia got some vanilla mochi that came with strawberries on the side. Delicious!

Overall our food was great. The help - not so much. Our server was nowhere to be found when we needed him, and took over 20 minutes to bring our check back to us.

Would I go here again? Sure, why not. I'd love to go again in the summer and sit on the outside patio and people watch!

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

happy hump day!


Saw this quote and realized how true it really is - sometimes I spend so much time dwelling on things I have said or done that I forget the lesson behind it.

Monday, April 5, 2010

marvelous monday.

my favs of the week!

Warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies from the Larchmont Bakery...I know I'm supposed to be on a 'diet' but how could I to say no to that?!

The raspberry lemonade with whatever alcohol in it I got from Wood Ranch on Thursday night. Absolutely delicious...our service that night, not so much. Looking back on it though, it was hysterical...have you ever had a server laugh at you when you order mac n cheese?! Yep, was a first for me too.

Finding a $4 tank top I love at Forever 21....it was so cheap I couldn't pass it up!

Christopher and I spent 4 hours yesterday catching up on Life Unexpected and Vampire Diaries. As always, acting on Life Unexpected=horrible yet I'm still watching. And, still in love with Stephan and his super hot bad ass brother.

I know I've put this down before...but the Ice Blended Mochas at Coffee Bean...boss sent me on a "treat run" this week...and again, was in heaven.

Catching up with old friends. It was great to see Melissa this weekend, it's as if no time has past and we picked right back up where we started!

Bars with outdoors patios. We went to PB Ale House on Saturday night. There was a fireplace and everything, not to mention the $3 beers after 10! Loved it.

Finishing the "Pray" section of Eat, Pray, Love...I'm making major headway in that book, let's 'pray' I'm done by the end of the week! HA! The only reason I'm so determined to finish the book is because Julia Roberts stars in the movie - and I love her in everything. And, I don't like the character of Eat, Pray, Love..she's such a Debbie Downer! So,I'm curious to see if I won't like Julia either.

Baseball season is back! Dodgers start today vs Pittsburgh.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

April Showers..?!

How is it already April?!

I feel that the older I get, the faster time seems to go by...makes me think that I really need to "smell the roses" every once in a while.

I want to see The Last Song for the man candy, but probably won't because I can't stand Miley.

Going to San Diego for Easter this weekend with the fam! Excited to get away for a few days.

The weather people have been talking about this huge 'storm' that's supposed to hit...I suppose it rained a few drops last night, but I wouldn't exactly call that "Storm Watch 2010"...but on a side note, why is it always seem to be gorgeous outside on days I have work, but 62 and cloudy on the weekends?!

I am beyond belief looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow morning.

Monday, March 29, 2010

marvelous monday.

my favorite happenings of the week!


Taking a different route to work to enjoy the beautiful scenery..the houses of Hancock Park are such a sight.

Gossip Girl...although I love Chuck and Blair together, I miss the bad ass Chuck Bass. xoxo

Seeing a guy dressed up as Spiderman walking down Hollywood Blvd. All he was carrying was his murse....only in LA! Don't know what cracks me up more - the fact that I saw Spidey on a day that wasn't Halloween, or that no one seemed to even be phased by it!

Running into old co-workers at the EP Client Party.

The open bar at the EP Party....endless Cosmos for me!

The Thai Chicken Salad I got from Louise's Trattoria-amazing thai peanut dressing with some chopped up mango!

Ice Blended Black Forest from Coffee Bean..forgot how much I enjoyed these!

Dinners with Miss Mia..I was lucky enough to get 2 this week!

Going bowling and getting the lowest score..but I had a blast, gutter balls and all!

Trying out new recipes..and having them be a success! So glad my chocolate cheesecake turned out so good!

Spending Sunday evening watching the entire first season of How I Met Your Mother. I feel it's this generation's Seinfeld- an amazing show about nothing!

Kitty Bear sitting curled up next to me as I type this. I love how in her old age she has become such a lounge kitty and my perfect TV buddy! She likes all of my shows, and never asks to change the channel :)




Sunday, March 28, 2010

Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake

Tonight's mission: Come up with a dessert that was easy to make yet still tastes great.

With the help of the Hershey's website, I was able to whip up a chocolate cheesecake...and trust me, it was much easier than I thought!


  • 1 bag chocolate chips
  • 12 ounces softened cream cheese
  • 1/2 stick butter
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 cups cool whip
  • 1 graham cracker pie crust

I first melted the chocolate chips in the microwave, and then let them cool. Using a mixer, I combined the cream cheese with the butter and sugar. I then mixed in the melted chocolate, and then the cool whip. I spooned the mixture into the pie crust, and then refrigerated for a few hours. It came out simply amazing! I would definitely make it again, but maybe use an Oreo cookie pie crust instead.


The pie/cheesecake had more of a chocolate mousse consistency. It was light and airy, and wasn't as firm as cheesecake I've had in the past.

Uncle Rick already requested it at the next family barbecue, so my dessert was officially a success!

Friday, March 26, 2010

TGIF!



Pismo Beach: BOOKED!


Monday, March 22, 2010

marvelous monday.

I've decided that every Monday I'll do a post that recaps my favorite events from the past week...titled Marvelous Monday. Why you ask? Marvelous was the word I used to use to describe things when I was a little girl..so I figured it was time to bring it back!

Beautiful 75 degree weather here in So-Cal

Making a March Madness bracket with JP

The incredibly bad acting on Life Unexpected...yet I still continue to watch week after week!

Corn beef and cabbage for dinner on Tuesday (a day early)

Green beer on St. Patty's Day

Spending St. Patty's Day with great friends

Gyenari happy hour with Sopheap and Jae

Starting my new diet and work-out routine..or rather just start eating better and exercising regularly.

Laying in the sun attempting to finish (again) Eat, Pray, Love

Spontaneous Saturday night rendezvous with Jeanne-Marie

The amazing bargains I got on stuff I didn't need at Gap and Victoria's Secret..couldn't pass it up!

Sunday evening bike ride with Dad


Thursday, March 18, 2010

HoLLyWooD

3. Hike to the Hollywood sign.



December 26-2009. Jeanne-Marie and I were hiking to the top of Mt. Lee, home of the famous Hollywood sign - rain or shine. We had been talking about hiking to the sign since we were either junior or seniors in high school, so it was about time. We decided that instead of talking about doing things, we needed to actually just do them. Ended up being a slightly overcast day, but no rain so we were in luck! Her lovely sister Ali and our friend Kevin accompanied us on our journey. It wasn't much of a hike at all - actually the hardest part of it was the first 5oo feet of the hike, mainly because there was horse droppings all along the way! Took us about 30 minutes to get to the top. On the way back down, we took a path that led us front and center of the sign, which was great for our photo opt!


Obviously we were beyond famished after this hike, so we decided to go somewhere that was a first for Jeanne-Marie: Apple Pan! After all these years she's never been, so what better time than now?! We all got juicy burgers that were amazingly good...and definitely used about 15+ napkins each. I got my favorite, hickory bbq cheeseburger! Yum!



25 Before 25

1. Take a vacation

2. Learn how to knit a scarf

3. Hike to the Hollywood sign

4. Eat at a restaurant talked about in the tabloids

5. Write a blog

6. Go to a spa

7. Take a self defense class

8. Go on a road trip

9. See a concert at the HollwoodBowl

10.Use a new recipe once a month

11. Visit the Getty museum in Malibu, CA

12. Learn how to surf..again.

13. Go wine tasting

14. Reread a classic book that I was supposed to read in high school

15. Weigh what my drivers license says i weigh

16. Be a tourist on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

17. Visit Pismo Beach, CA

18. Do something completely out of character

19. Attend a major league baseball game

20. Shoot a gun

21. See a movie at a drive-in movie theater

22. Watch 5 movies I haven't seen from the IMDB Top 250 Movies list http://www.imdb.com/chart/top

23. See a movie at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

24. Turn my cell phone off for a day

25. Buy myself one expensive item in remembrance of my first 25 years

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

My First Post

With me turning 25 this year I decided I wanted to come up with a "25 Before 25" list.

First on the list: Write a blog.

So, here I am...writing my first personal blog (not one for a class where I am given topics to write on and then being graded on my opinion, so glad those days are over)!

My "25 Before 25" list is made up of activities that I want/hope to accomplish before I turn 25 in October...one thing on my list was to blog about the goals I have completed.

Yes, I came up with this grand idea on December 26, 2009 (after my hike to the Hollywood Sign, another item on my list..more about that later)..and yes, I know that was almost 3 months ago - but better late than never!