21. Hooray for Hollywood

Before I begin, I dedicate this post to Megan and all first time visitors to SoCal.  Megan is engaged to my oldest son and recently (as I write this) made her first ever visit to Los Angeles (L.A.).

As I mention in my first ever article for examiner.com, as their LA Sightseeing Examiner, of course, Megan's first experience of L.A. was LAX (Los Angeles International Airport) as it has been for so many before her and will be for so many after her.

Still, I was tickled to find out this was her virginal visit to L.A.  Now that I write these blogs and articles, I knew I would be interested to find out her first choice for sightseeing in L.A.  Her answer I'm sure you can guess by the subject of this blog, Hollywood.

If you've never been to L.A. before you may have a completely different idea of Hollywood than I do.

There is the iconic HOLLYWOOD sign, which is no where close to the Hollywood Walk of Fame.  There is the Hollywood Bowl, which is not very close to the Hollywood and Highland Complex.

Hollywood is actually a district in Los Angeles not its own city or town.

Or maybe you do think of the place you do want to visit in Hollywood the same as me, which is Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue.  It is where the El Capitan Theatre is located where Jimmy Kimmel Live is recorded.  This is where the Kodak Theatre is.  This is where Grauman's Chinese Theater is, where on any given evening you might find a moving premiere happening.

To get to Hollywood, we drove north on Highway 110.  For late October it was hot.  We all got a great view of the smog hovering over downtown.  We caught our exit and proceeded on Highway 101.  Traffic.  Traffic.  Traffic.  If you are from a less traffic laden area, this much traffic on a Sunday will seem stifling to you as it was to my guests.

After taking the Hollywood Boulevard exit, we turned left onto Hollywood Boulevard toward our destination.  By now we'd already been in the car for almost an hour.  We passed the Capital Record Building and started noticing stars on the sidewalk.  When we finally got to Hollywood and Highland we were hot, tired and noticing a ton of other tourists.  None of us were too thrilled about parking and walking around.  So we just kept driving.  Maybe next time...when we also attend a Jimmy Kimmel Live taping and it is night and cooler and the sun isn't in our eyes and...

What I hadn't expected to find is that a scant two or three blocks west of Hollywood and Highland is La Brea Avenue.  In fact, it is from La Brea Avenue this blog post's photo of the Hollywood Sign was taken.  I could have taken La Brea all the way to Hollywood Boulevard. It probably would have been a shorter drive.

We then decided what we'd enjoy more is finding the House of Blues on Sunset Boulevard to stop and have a brew.  We're big fans of the House of Blues (HOB) venue and have been delighted with every experience regardless of location.  Here's a tip.  If you can work it out, you will be better off entering parking opportunities for the House of Blues Sunset if you are going east on Sunset Boulevard.  It was only 3ish PM, but when we pulled into the parking lot it sure seemed quiet.

Waaaaahh!  We were denied.  HOB was closed due to a private event.  I know.  Maybe it was for the best.  What's the deal now, "Buzzed driving IS drunk driving!"  I personally would have had only one beer and I was driving.  And I was thirsty.  And I will admit, a little bummed.

I felt all was not lost however.  We would follow winding and meandering Sunset Boulevard all the way to the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).  There would be plenty to see along this infamous thoroughfare.  I'd driven it before but for whatever reason on today's drive the almost 20 miles seemed extra longer and farther than I recalled.  Definitely scenic though.  To me the prize when you reach the end of Sunset Boulevard at PCH is my favorite Taco Bell (so far that is).  More about that in another blog post.

You know, in hindsight maybe as much as we were trying to push it, none of us were really much in the mood for sightseeing.

Thinking back on it, I feel I should have demanded we park and walk around at Hollywood and Highland.  So, I went back the other night with the intent of parking and videoing and such as my way of somehow making up for not getting out of the car.  A funny thing happened on the way to Hollywood.  Once I got there I still had no desire to get out and walk around, etc.

Instead, I shot this little video from my car.  My heart was in the right place.  I'm just not sure where the rest of me was.  In closing then, what comes to mind is simply "Hooray for Hollywood!"

20. Sharks Cove Hermosa Beach

Having lived the majority of my life in Minnesota, there are many things that are a change when one moves to California, like what time NFL games start on a Sunday morning (9 and 10 am).  That seems a little early to me to start drinking beer.  Does that make me a prude?

Normally, I prefer to watch sports and do my drinking at home.  The morning we visited Sharks Cove in Hermosa Beach (for those who don't know, Hermosa is a spanish word meaning "beautiful" and the "h" is silent) it was with very deliberate intent.  This bar is a Pittsburgh Steelers bar.

On this fine Sunday morning in October the Minnesota Vikings would be guests of the Pittsburgh Steelers in a match that would find Brett Favre experiencing his first loss of the 2009-2010 season wearing his purple #4.

Now I've heard of niche marketing, but a bar that can be supported by fans of a team almost three thousand miles a way seems a bit too niche to be profitable.  And yet, here it is.  And their Steelers' energy was intimidating, I am sad to report.  So much so we were almost happy to leave to go to another place to meet family, have breakfast and watch the end of the game in more neutral territory.  And bonus: a view of the beach and ocean.

Sharks Cove in Hermosa Beach serves breakfast.  As I looked over the menu I have to say I was shocked, surprised and dare I say it...a little excited to find they serve tater tots with their breakfast. I was especially excited as I had not too long ago been thinking about one of those dishes which probably never EVER will be considered healthy, tater tot hot dish. Yet, I'll probably always have a fond spot for this "comfort food" dish in my heart.

So class what have we learned here?  Let's see.  If you are ever in Hermosa Beach looking for a place to have beer, tater tots and cheer for your favorite NFL team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sharks Cove is just that little slice of heaven you've been looking for.

19. Holy Cross Cemetery

In honor of Halloween, a trip to a cemetery seems like a good idea.

If you know much about Los Angeles, Forest Lawn might seem like the obvious choice as it is well known for celebrity residents.  Their most recent resident, one Michael Jackson.  So, I didn't want to go there.

Honestly, the only cemetery I considered is the one where some of my family are now residents, Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City.

During the day this 200 acre cemetery, which first opened its gate in 1939, is more a place of zen-like tranquility with its beautifully landscaped grounds and chapel than a place to be afraid.  Be very afraid.  On a clear day from the east end of the grounds one can see all the way to the ocean.

The grounds and chapel are immaculate.  In the chapel, except for the very faint sound of elevator-type music, it is about quiet enough to hear a pin drop.  A place seemingly more conducive to meditation than mourning.

Holy Cross Cemetery also has its share of celebrity residents.  During one of my first visits I spied John Candy's marker and just seconds later Fred MacMurray.  I later Googled both names just to ensure I really saw what I saw.  I hadn't expected celebrity residents as I was there to pay respect to deceased members of my family.  I only noticed their markers as they are close to the restrooms.

All in all this cemetery is anything but frightening...at least during the day.  Depending on your frame of mind if you visit, it just may give you pause as it did me.  There are so many choices in life.  Who knew there could be so many choices in death.

Holy Cross Cemetery, 5835 West Slauson Avenue, Culver City, California

18. not 2Beach

So you are not such a big fan of the surf and sand.  What oh what else can you do if you find yourself in Manhattan Beach?

How about a massage?  There is Trilogy Spa on the 2nd floor of the building in this photo (taken at the corner of Valley/Ardmore and Manhattan Beach Boulevard).

There are a number of excellent restaurants.

Downtown Manhattan Beach is an equal opportunity coffee house placement zone.  Here you will find Starbucks, Peets Coffee and Tea, and The Coffee Bean.

Maybe Jamba Juice or Noah's Bagels is more your speed.

Maybe you are an ice cream fan.  Choose between Cold Stone Creamery or  Manhattan Beach's very own Manhattan Beach Creamery.

Are you a little more artsy?  Paint pottery at the Color Me Mine.

Find out a bit about Manhattan Beach's Metlox Pottery history at the Metlox Town Plaza. 

Or get your shop on. 

Manhattan Beach is home of Skechers HQ. 

You will also find an American Apparel, Diane's and many other fine shopping experiences.

Downtown Manhattan Beach also boasts a grocery store, Von's, across from the Metlox Town Plaza.

One thing you will find little of (at least in walking distance) is overnight accommodations.  Shade Hotel provides the only overnight accommodations in downtown Manhattan Beach.

Of course, as I mention in my 2Beach blog post, T. Harv Eker teaches that the poor tend to think "or" while the rich tend to think "and".  If you are looking for a great weekend getaway, Manhattan Beach certainly offers much in the way of 2Beach AND not 2Beach.

Who knows?  Maybe I'll see you there.

17. 2Beach - Manhattan Beach Pier

On a clear, sunny day (which most are in Manhattan Beach, the South Bay of L.A.) it seems fairly obvious to go to the beach to lay out in the sun and bathe.  This is awesome during about half the year.  Even though from about March to November you can get by without a jacket, the water stays a fairly consistent temperature that doesn't make it conducive to swimming or being in the water too long without a wet suit from about October to April.  Always a good idea to check.

So, 2Beach or not 2Beach?  That was the question.

Aaaahhhhhhh!  There's so much more to do at this beach than sun bathe.

Walking:  You can walk the cement path also known as the Strand.  You can walk the wet sand right by the water's edge.

Biking:  There's a bike path.

Volleyball:  Manhattan Beach is considered the home of beach volleyball.

Swimming

Surfing:  Traditional, Wind or Paddle

Photography

Walking the Pier: Alone or with a date

Fishing from the end of the Pier

The Roundhouse Aquarium:  The aquarium at the end of the pier.  This is the only place to buy food or beverages only during Roundhouse hours (weather permitting).

Watching the Sunset, Sunrise or for dolphins

There are restrooms and showers to wash off the sand and salt water. 

If you drive to the Pier, you want to be sure to bring plenty of quarters to feed the meter.  Twenty-five cents buys you 10 minutes.

Pets are allowed ONLY on the Strand.  No pets on the beach or on the Pier.  No smoking is allowed.  No nudity (just wanted to see if you are paying attention).

Please, please, please be sure to use the trash receptacles.

And please, please, please watch for bikers when you cross the bike path.  Also, remember the bike path is for bikes.  NOT for walkers.  That's what the Strand is for.

Before I end and include the video I did for this post, I leave with the following: T. Harv Eker has written that the poor think "or" and the rich think "and".  One could easily make a magnificent day at Manhattan Beach by parking closer to downtown (you are not a slave to putting quarters in the meter) where you have the best of both worlds; all the activities at the beach and all the shopping and dining not at the beach.

Just thought of a couple more things:  shell hunting, bird watching and Frisbee tossing.  Oh my!

16. To Beach or Not To Beach? That Is The Question.

Thought this might be a nice way to give you a quick taste of Manhattan Beach Pier



and not Manhattan Beach Pier (Downtown Manhattan Beach)



Then I'll tackle each a bit more in depth in the next two blog posts.

Until we cyber meet again.

15. California Historical Landmark No. 1018

NO. 1018 MANHATTAN BEACH STATE PIER - Designed by City Engineer A.L. Harris, this pier was constructed by the City of Manhattan Beach during the years 1917-1920. The roundhouse building was added a year later. Harris' innovative design featured a rounded end to the pier, which helped it withstand the pounding of the Pacific. Although the roundhouse was reconstructed in 1989, the pier itself survives as Southern California's oldest remaining example of early reinforced concrete pier construction.
Location: West of Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach

This was one of my delightful surprises.  For all of the times I've been by the pier I never took notice that it is one of California's Historical Landmarks.  Architecturally, the Manhattan Beach Pier is beautiful and oft photographed.  Below is one of my attempts.

 I have more posts to share from Manhattan Beach, but for now I take this opportunity to copy the post I did for the California Historical Landmark, sunset at Point Dume (do-may), especially since it was another surprise that I was able to film what seemed to be a very close sun.  Enjoy.

P.S.  Notice how clean Manhattan Beach is and the architectural beauty of the lamp posts that flank the pier and mimic the round theme.

14. Feels Like The First Time

Like the dutiful Tour Guide Goddess I am, of course I would go to the Manhattan Beach Pier to give my awesome readers the low down on the pier and expose what a different experience it is from El Porto.

As just about every day is beautiful and sunny, sometimes I can forget it is fall.  When I left at 6 PM to go to the pier had I remembered it is October and how early the sun goes down, I would have made a point to go earlier.  Too late.  Too bad.  Or was it?

There are many roads which lead to the pier. As I pondered them, I decided the best would be drive south to Manhattan Beach Boulevard and go west.  I know.  Clever.  Manhattan Beach Boulevard takes you directly to downtown Manhattan Beach and the pier.

What I hadn't pondered was the almost audible gasp I let out at my first sighting of the ocean.  As you continue west on Manhattan Beach Boulevard and pass Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach Boulevard starts to lose elevation.  As you drive this way there is what almost seems like a visual illusion where now you don't see it, now you do.  If you are like me with my inexplicable love for the ocean, after not having seen the ocean for so long (you know...about a day), any first ocean glimpse for me is almost like seeing it for the first time.

The more I thought about the different posts I would make, the more I desired to see if I could somehow share this moment with you by filming it.  I vowed to return the next day and film the view.  Next day came and it was overcast.  I didn't think that would make too much of a difference.  So, off I went.  I parked by Pacific and Manhattan Beach Boulevard reasoning it might make for more dramatic filming if I walked instead of trying to film and drive at the same time.

It just wasn't the same by foot.  Before you ponder feeling sorry for me, know it wasn't a total bust.  I was able to prove to myself I can walk, talk, chew gum AND film at the same time without falling.  Also, there was much going on worthy of filming and sharing, which was satisfying.

I intended on leaving it at that when the very next day I found out I will be the L.A. Destination Examiner for examiner.com.  At least as I write this it is all in process.  Process means emailing examiner.com a photo...of me.  Aaaaaaaggggghhhhh!  As you may or may not know I use the smiley face as my avatar for all my web presences.  I did not possess an appropriate photo of me in digital form to email examiner.com.

Did you see that light bulb flash?

I could give the video view one more shot and have my photo taken with the ocean in the background, which seems appropriate.  I'd go about sunset time to get the colors.  I'd have my camera ready and film that first moment from my car to see if that made a difference.  It would be better than good.  It would be golden.

Three Strikes You're Out!
The view still didn't seem to be the same magical "something" that had me almost gasp with delight as I caught that first glimpse of the ocean.  I'm including the video anyway.  Maybe it will move you.

Before you go feeling sorry for me, know it wasn't a total bust.  I still got a photo I am almost happy with.  That's almost a miracle in itself.  Plus, the entire three day experience left me with a new found appreciation for the Manhattan Beach Pier area I previously did not possess.  It also inspired me with the title for this blog post and an esoteric mind trip about how something as generic as going to the beach doesn't mean that each time is not unique.  Each experience is unique.  Each can certainly feel like the first time if you let it.

And with that to quote Bob Hope, "Thanks for the memories."




Below is a bonus video showing what the sky looked like the first night I mention in this blog post and what the view looked like as I was walking (also mentioned).  Enjoy.

13. Paparazzi

After visitng the Manhattan Beach Pier as I said I would, I have about 500 (okay, 5 at least) blogs I could easily do and one in particular that I wanted to be the first of the series.

Ahhhhh, so much for the best laid plans and definitely in the category of "life is like a box of chocolates...you never know what you are going to get".

Here was one of the views from the pier that I captured with my video camera.  Almost made me feel a little like the paparazzi's paparazzi.

Enjoy!

12. El Porto

El Porto is the name of the beach that is located at the north end of the city of Manhattan Beach.

As I mention in the video, it is the beach I visit the most because it is the closest one to where I live.  This in no way means it is a lesser beach.  In fact, just the opposite.  So aren't I lucky?  Don't hate me 'cuz I'm beau...close to an awesome beach.

El Porto is known as a surfer beach.  You can almost always be assured that you will see surfers enjoying their waves anytime you visit.  On the day I visited at the beginning of the video, there were too many to even count.  I know I mention in the video that it is a great place to watch surfers.  I realized, hello, it is obviously a great place to surf.  Maybe that goes without saying.

El Porto also offers so much more when it comes to the beach experience.  Unfortunately, I don't know of public transportation that gets too close.  If you drive, you can drive around quite a bit to find free street parking.  You may actually end up spending more on gas that way than you will to simply park in the provided area.  FYI! Bring a whole bunch of quarters to feed the hungry meter.  I want to know the meters trick.  They eat more and still stay so slim and trim.

There is a bike path (if you want to bring your bike). You can bike all the way to Redondo Beach and back, if you like, or go north all the way to Marina Del Ray. Either way is a delightful little jaunt.

I personally love to get barefoot and walk down to where the wet sand is.  Then I love to stroll with the feel of sand between my toes, to the Manhattan Beach Pier and back.  It's great exercise, but I'm not thinking about that.  I'm just feeling my love for this experience.  I also love to watch for sand dollars.  I've noticed many beaches now rarely have shells.  Some beaches don't want you to remove anything because they feel it upsets the natural balance.  Some beaches have lots of rocks.  This stretch is where you just might be able to find a sand dollar.  And when I do, I take it as a sign that it is my lucky day.  One day I found about 15 sand dollars.  I should have played the lottery that day.  It's helpful for sand dollar prospecting if you walk the beach at low tide time.

As I walk, there are usually some of those cute little sand pipers playing along the beach.  I get a kick out of watching them.  It's like their biggest joy in life is to play with the water as it flows up the beach.  Can they out walk it before it hits their little legs?  It's like they can play all day and never get tired of it. I know...I just may be the ocean dork I claim I am.

As my trips usually include walking on the wet sand, I rarely ever use the walking path directly in front of the homes on the Strand.  The Strand is the name that has been given to all the homes with immediate beach access.  Personally, as much as I love the beach and would love to live at the beach, I wouldn't want to live in one of the homes on the Strand.  Okay, maybe if you paid me to live there or I lived there for free.  It's just that I often think of it as the sort of thing that happens at the zoo.  You walk the Strand and you get to watch all of the people who live there in their natural habitat.  And I know you should be looking at the ocean.  Yet, like a train wreck, I can't seem to look away.

Of course, the first time you walk the Strand, some of the homes are truly magnificent works of art from an architectural standpoint.  So, go ahead: look.

As I walked the Strand the day it rained, I noticed something else.  First, no pets are allowed on the actual beach nor is any smoking.  It has saved people from finding pet droppings or cig butts in the sand.  Dogs are allowed to walk with you on the Strand.  Poop bags are provided or bring your own pooper scooper.  It's the law.

Second, gardens.  I hadn't noticed before that many of the homes have gardens they keep up.  So if that is something you enjoy looking at, you'll love strolling the Strand.

Before I TTFN...no that isn't anything dirty...it means "ta ta for now", two more quick things.  One is that public facilities are provided and usually kept quite clean.  There are also showers and places to rinse off sand and salt water from your body.  You do need to bring your own towels, swim suits, sun screen and things like that.  And oh yeah, no alcohol or BBQing.

Two is this is the more mellow and less tourist-y area of the city of Manhattan Beach.  If that works for you, check it out.  The other area, which will be the subject of my next blog, is the Manhattan Beach Pier area.  Who knows?  Maybe that actually makes Manhattan Beach the perfect spot for you.  If you feel a little country or a little rock n' roll, this city offers two distinct beach experiences.

11. Okay, It's Not A Destination

I'm talking...wait...scratch that!  I'm writing about rain.  Never would have guessed it.

One of the things I love about Southern California is that you may expect to awake just about every morning to the beautiful rays of the sun flowing through your window...just another beautiful day in South L.A.

Except for the winter of 2004-2005 (my first winter back) which rained so much people got rain in their homes, there has been little rain to speak of.  I was a little surprised when I checked this California Rainfall Chart to see L.A. got nine inches of rain last year.  Why?  It sounds like they overstated compared to what I remember experiencing.  Any whooooo...

To me at this point rain may not be a destination, but it sure seems like it is an event.  I never thought I'd see the day when I was so surprised to see raindrops that I felt like I had to do a double take to make sure it really was rain.  I never expected as my normal inclination is to stay out of the rain, now that it shows up so infrequently all I want to do is stand out in it and feel the experience.

It makes me ponder some too...something I refer to as mind cuisine (a take on food for thought)...how I can get so caught up in my own life and my own surroundings that I don't give much thought to other people's weather.  What really made me think about this is how much I really do expect it to be sunny and fabulous everyday.  So, when someone I know calls and says it is raining or snowing, I realize I almost forgot such weather exists.

Of course, then I might snap out of it and remind myself there are most likely more empowering things for my mind to ponder.  Or not.  After all this is all part of the SoCal experience.


Note to readers: The video is proof it did rain October 13, 2009 in my neighborhood, especially since I don't have any CGI abilities or know anyone who does.  I heard the first rain at 10 am and it lasted for only a minute.  Not enough time to grab my camera and film it.  About an hour later it was raining again. What I would consider a normal rain.  By 2 PM it had already stopped.  I had plans to do something else and then decided from reading some of the postings on Facebook that I might want to check out what the beach looks like after a rain.  I drove to El Porto where not much seemed different except it was overcast and I did see a few puddles here and there that hadn't yet dried up.

As I write this (10/14/09) it is raining again and has been for a while.  I find it interesting that of all of Southern California it seems like the South Bay area is the most blessed weather wise.  Last night the news was full of bad weather this and evacuation that because of the rain and we'd barely had any.  Or the fires are here and the mud slides are there or whatever it is.  If I didn't hear it on the news, I wouldn't know it based on my experience of life in the South Bay.  Even earth quakes.  I believe I'd already been living in the South Bay for over three years before I felt one.  It lasted for only a few seconds and barely made a dent on the Richter Scale.  Instead of being panicked, I was more about was that really an earth quake and excited to experience it.

Let me be clear to my readers and the Universe, this is not me complaining.  I am elated.  I love that where I live seems to be so very, very safe.  Maybe it is my many years of living in Minnesota and North Dakota where weather is a constant topic that to move some where that weather seems to be such a non-factor...and maybe I don't have to figure it out.  Did I ever think of that?  Never mind.

10. Heaven On Earth Does Exist and You Can Find It In L.A.

You know I figure there may be many who when they think of Los Angeles have a view that makes it seem like a place where the last thing you think you will find is heaven being represented.  Yet, that would be so untrue.  Truth is, I could probably write a blog that focused simply on places you could go in SoCal where spirituality is alive and well.  Heaven On Earth L.A. Holistic Living Center would be just one of those places.

With the Hollywood sign in view, this wonderful slice of heaven is located at 7122 Beverly Boulevard in Los Angeles with a Starbucks on the corner for your after yoga latte.

Examples of the classes and services offered at the Heaven on Earth Holistic Living Center:



Fitness: Yoga, Tai Chi, Flying Yoga, Belly Dance, Laughter Yoga, African Dance and more.

Arts: Poetry, Music and Movie nights, conscious art exhibits, children and teen art and music classes, drum circles.

Education: Dynamic Lectures, author’s events, holistic afterschool classes for kids and teens.

Holistic Healing: Theta Healing, Psych-K, Reiki, Herbal Medicine, Nutrition, EFT, Angel Therapy, and more!

Spiritual Sanctuary: Bi-monthly Spirit – focused Sunday services, Goddess and Angel Circles, spiritual workshops and retreats. Home of the Goddess Parties and Community Healing Fairs!

Community and eco-focus: We partner with non-profits and Community organizations; we promote and support community and environmental initiatives.  We recently donated Studio time for a celebrity photo shoot to promote the Environmental Justice Foundation’s “Clean Cotton Campaign”, learn more at www.ejfoundation.org.

As you can see, there is lots happening at Heaven on Earth L.A.

Founder, Stahsha Stanowicz, is thrilled to see her vision coming to life.  Whether you have a related class, presentation or event you need a facility to host it in or you are simply attending one of the classes or events being hosted at Heaven on Earth L.A. (click here to go to the calendar of events), this is the place where the heavenly happens.

The video is a montage of events from Heaven on Earth L.A.'s Grand Opening Event, September 19, 2009, which I was honored to have attended.

9. After the Finish Line

I have just enough knowledge about Long Beach to feel like I wouldn't get lost, but not enough to judge how far or how close I parked to the Finish Line for the Long Beach Marathon.  Turns out I could have parked so much closer.  Yet, it was a great opportunity for me to site see film on my way back.

I see Long Beach being one of those places that you fly into.  Long Beach Airport is the bomb.  Not literally a bomb, but it is fast and furious.  Jet Blue flies into Long Beach Airport.  There are only a few gates.  The planes still have those stair things for boarding and unloading.  It's a trip.  I love flying in and out of this airport.

You take some form of mass transit or cab or whatever to your hotel in the Ocean Boulevard/Shoreline Drive area.  Then you spend a long weekend or a week walking here or renting a bike and biking there or hopping on the green line and riding it to downtown L.A. and any or all points in between.  Long Beach is beautiful, big city-esque and fairly clean.  More about that later.

You'll see in my video a quick view of all the people and goings-on around the finish line area of the marathon.  Also, the line up of porta potties.  I wonder if there is some sort of math formula for figuring out how many an event should have on hand?

Then I followed the throng of people along Shoreline Drive passing the Rainbow Lagoon Park, which brought me to one of my own personal favorite areas, the corner where you can see Famous Dave's.

I always get a bit excited when I find something I knew and loved when I lived in Minneapolis somewhere in SoCal like Famous Dave's.  My still all time favorite Famous Dave's is the Lake Calhoun one in Minnepolis, but this one still has their great tasting food.  Yum!

This is also the corner for the Merry-go-Round, the Convention Center and the shops where Borders Books is.  I love a great book store.

Then I just kept walking up Pine Street until I reached 4th.  Took a left and the rest as they say, "is history".

Okay, here's my blurb on litter.  There are places you go in SoCal where you just know it is hard to find a spec of litter like Disneyland.  It's also something you notice about The Grove, which is the shopping mecca I wrote my first CaliforniVacation: SoCal Style blog from and about.  More often than not, though, you will notice litter in SoCal.  And I find it sad.

It makes me wonder about people who litter.  Do they litter in their own home?  Okay, and just to make it a bit more emotional, let's not call it litter.  It's trash.  TRASH!  TRASH with all the disdain you can put in it.

Do they trash their own home?  More importantly, if you are a guest in someone's home do you trash their home?  Why would tourists trash SoCal?  How hard is it to keep it in your car until you get home and place it in your normal garbage?  It irks me.  And yet, I don't know what the answer is.

Long Beach seems to have found one.  Click here to see a brochure about something they started in 2007; Long Beach, We Like It Litter Free.  Now truth is that sadly I may not have noticed how little litter they did seem to have around the areas I walked without all the banners Long Beach has up around the city and in many different languages.  What I do feel I would have noticed is if there was a lot more litter, though.

Whenever I go somewhere, I love to go with an open mind and be delighted about what I will find.  There are many ways I feel my trip to Long Beach was a blessing and their solution to litter is one of them.  I applaud this city and its efforts to remind those who visit to please cooperate with their desire to keep Long Beach as naturally beautiful as it is.

And even though I haven't expressed it for a while, thank you to all of you who read any of my blogs.  I appreciate it very much...even more than I appreciate those who don't litter.  And now you know how I feel about that.  Thank you.

8. Long Beach Marathon

I'd like to dedicate this blog post to my mommy and my sister, Patty, even if the marathon world may know her as Patricia.

So...I'm not a runner and I don't even play one on TV.  However, if you've never attended a marathon before (in any city) it is kind of exciting.  Since the first marathon I ever attended I went to as a "helper", I was up at the crack of dawn (which you may know by now I loves to sleep in) to see how the start of the race happens.  If it is a large, well-attended marathon it is somewhat like a cattle call.  Lots and lots of people all in a very little space waiting for their moment to start running.  From a filming stand point it makes it hard to single someone out and film them.

I suppose, too, if I was really motivated and because this was something like my sister's 45th marathon she's run in, I could have figured out pretty closely a lovely place to film as she ran by.  The event, as do most marathon's have a web presence and are high-tech in that each entrant is given a chip that is tracked with the time they go over the starting line and the time they go over the finish line, which gives them an accurate reading of their 26.2 mile total running time.  My point: I had access to the course map.  It's just that I feel you can't match the excitement of what happens at the finish line.

I knew I could calculate fairly closely when Patty would cross the finish line.  I just hoped I could find a great spot to film it, which I did.  After only 11 minutes of filming, her name was announced and a few seconds later she crossed the finish line.  Congratulations!  Another great run.  Video of this momentous occasion is at the end of this blog post.

As for a destination, the video doesn't give you much of a look at the City of Long Beach.  If this is at all disappointing, stick around for my next amazing blog post where I reveal just a little bit more of this amazing city.

Also, if you happen upon this blog and you know anyone who ran in this marathon and finished around the same time as my sister (from 3 hours 35 minutes to 4 hours and 3 minutes), I filmed the finish line during this time and uploaded it to the CaliforniVacation YouTube Channel.  Let them know they can go there and see themselves cross the finish line.  While the main focus of the film is on the marathon side of finishers, the half marathoners may also be able to get a glimpse of themselves too.

Post 6.1 California Historical Landmark No. 965

"You're out of order!"

"No you're out of order!"

No...this blog post is out of order.

Before Miramar Beach, there was California Historical Landmark No. 965...at least from the standpoint of my chronological visits.

And where is California Historical Landmark No. 965?  Malibu, baby?  Yes!  That Malibu.  You know, the one where Charlie Harper from Two and a half Men lives.  I keep trying to find the house, but...

Okay, I'm kidding.  Thank God, right?

Now that I am your CaliforniVacation Travel Tour Goddess, I've been noticing stuff.  You know, like if you buy a yellow 'Vette and all of a sudden start noticing them everywhere.

I noticed on my drive up (as Malibu is north from my home in the Hawthorne Hood) Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) into Malibu it boasts 27 miles of city.  According to its Wikipedia presence, since incorporating the true length of its coastline is 21 miles.  Apparently, Malibu wants you to feel things in Malibu are larger than they appear.  Sounds like some coastline envy to me.

Anywhoooo.....

Hawthorne has over 80,000 citizens, Malibu has 18,000 according to its sign.  Is that number fudged too?  Okay, I don't really care.  My point:  they have a lot less citizens per area in Malibu than Hawthorne.  I kinda like it.

I'm digressing a bit though, as the whole city of Malibu (click here for their official web presence, if you are interested) is not California Historical Landmark No. 965.  The actual landmark can be found at Point Dume (pronounced doo-may).  May I say that this point is quite groo-vay if you are looking for what in my opinion is THE (I capatilize purposely) premier place to view a sunrise or a sunset in Los Angles County, especially if you love the beach.

It is also a nice place to visit to hike or hang, etc.

I understand it is also the perfect place to watch California gray whales during the December to March migration period.  You know I'll be there to get a digital rendering.  Of course, I'll share.

Here's a little insider tip that you probably won't get on any official-type web presences: Do not drink an entire large size Taco Bell cup full of soda before going there as there are no restroom facilities except the way old fashioned way of finding a private spot and squatting, especially since there are very, very few private spots at Point Dume.  Okay, that may be good advice for visiting most places you may not feel a restroom will be.

7. It Ain't No Ports O' Call!

Okay, there was water, but I didn't make it to Ports O'Call Friday.

Since Friday, I've been pondering the significance of intending to visit somewhere (even broadcasting it to the CyberUniverse) and then NOT...in the context of CaliforniVacation.

One of my desires with this blog is that like me...other SoCal residents may gain a renewed appreciation for this magnificent area of the world in which we live. If you live here and say you'll go to Ports O'Call one day and then don't...no big whup!  You just go another day.  If you are visiting, you have to wonder if there will be another day...another time.

Yet for someone like me who doesn't really believe in accidents any more, I find it interesting that more and more I believe in what I refer to as "happy accidents".  Where I ended up instead on Friday, to me, is a happy accident because of my affinity for dolphins.

My Uncle Larry and I ended up (and I'll be honest out of mere laziness of not wanting to drive "all the way", which actually was about only another 15 minutes, to San Pedro) at Miramar Beach.

I know, you may be thinking to your self, "Miramar...miramar...miramar.  I know I've heard that before?"  If you've seen the movie, Top Gun, you would be right.  This is not that Miramar.

What makes it sort of weird and unique (at least in my opinion) is that it is the City of Torrance's only beach. If you are familiar with Torrance, you would know it is more of an inland city.  So this little strip of ocean front seems like a stretch to call it in Torrance, but who am I to judge, especially since it is a wonderful, well-maintained beach.

This area used to be known as The Hollywood Riviera.  If you are interested in the history, please click here.

There is a parking lot that you have to pay to park in.  However, there is street parking that is free.

Most beaches in Los Angeles County do not allow dogs.  When you watch the video you will see not only are dogs welcome, but they have their own water fountain.  Please be sure to bring your pooper scooper, of course.

Miramar Beach has three ramps to help you get from the parking lot to the beach area.  If you are handicapped, you may go to this beach and get quite close to the water.

What I loved the most?  It's a known dolphin hang out.  No the dolphins are not some sort of gang you aren't familiar with nor are they a sports team.  These are the delightful whole-brain using, ocean-dwelling mammals.

The delightful guys who were willing to let me film them are locals.  I am sad to say that it is pretty hard to notice any dolphins in my video.  However, if you visit, especially in the afternoon, you should be able to view dolphins yourself.

The one gent with the long green kayak, which kept tipping over, was practically swimming with the dolphins part of the time.  When I asked him about it, he mentioned dolphins are there every day.  As far as he knows though, they only play about once a month.  Of course, he probably isn't keeping dolphin vigil every moment.  So, he probably doesn't know for sure how often they play.  It's just that as I exlaim in the video that this is only the second time I've seen dolphins in five years.  So, I am super excited to know that if I want a place to go where I am pretty much assured I will see some...well, I now know where that place is.

Now you do to.

6. goon or gun? pay or pee?

My mommy enjoyed our conversation about my new blog.  She was kind enough to answer the exact year her mommy, daddy and brother moved to Hawthorne; 1951.

"Wow!" I exclaimed.  Hathorne was legally less than 30 years old then.  I couldn't imagine.  Okay, maybe I could.  I won't.

She also had some great memories to share and backed up my memory of not being allowed to be in her brother's wedding party because she isn't Catholic.  Her duty: guest book monitor.  I think she is still a little bitter.

My mommy was also kind enough to let me know my sister, Patty, will be running in the Long Beach Marathon this Sunday, October 11th.  Thank you, very much.  I now know what to write about next couple of CaliforniVacation: SoCal Style blog posts.

As I write this I am very close to turning 50 in this life's physical years.  Patty is my "Irish twin".  Did you know (DYK) Irish twins are siblings who are less than a year apart in age?  I didn't until recently.  Don't know why.  Maybe 'cuz I'm not Irish.  Anyway, Patty and I make that by three days.  For three days we are the same age and then I am older again.

Before I really get on with it, I hope you enjoy today's little blast from the past video.  The video contains footage of Patty and I visiting SoCal in 1967.  You'll love our sense of style or you'll laugh your BLEEP off.  Some is of us at Marineland, which no longer exists.  Some is of us at Ports o' Call  in San Pedro, which is where I plan to go tomorrow to give you the new millennium skinny compared to today's vintage view.

Here's what I feel makes a great Tour Guide Goddess (okay, maybe I should look in the mirror) from my experience in Hawaii.  I feel a great Tour Guide gives you interesting little tidbits of info you never knew you would love to know.

For instance, did you know before spam was something in cyberworld you don't want, it is something first created in Austin, Minnesota in 1937?  DYN Hawaiians love it?  Okay, probably not EVERY Hawaiian, but so much so that you can get Spam and eggs at Burger King in Waikiki?  DYN Waikiki has an annual weekend Spam festival with over 150 different ways to enjoy Spam?  What's that?  Do I hear some of you thinking, "Who gives a BLEEP (WGAB)?"

One of the things we learned from one of our Hawaiian Tour Guide Gods is to not be afraid to pronounce Hawaiian words.  It's easy when you now how.  Then he told us.  Now I am going to share with you.
a is pronounced like the way you say it when saying " Hawaii".
e is pronounced like an "a" in words like plate and case, in other words what Americans consider a long "a".
i is pronounced like a long e or saying the letter "e" in English.
o is pronounced like saying the letter "o" in English.
u is pronounced like "oo" or think of the sound you make after the y in the word "you"
Every vowel is pronounced.

For example:  I have a Facebook friend with a Hawaiian name, Kahealani.
To pronounce her name: Kah  A  ah  lah  nee.  Each vowel is pronounced with the "e" sounding like an A and the "i" sounding like an E.  See?  Easy.

Once I knew (after the initial gratitude), I admit, I felt like why didn't someone tell me sooner.

Well, today I'm going to give you some inside skinny on SoCal.

There is a main street, El Segundo Boulevard, and also one of South Bay's cities is El Segundo.  It is where the Lakers practice (WGAB?).

Now if you have no idea and you think the correct pronunciation is how you pronounce any English word, (okay, if you are me, you pronounce it wrong...usually) you pronounce the "gun" in segundo like the English word, gun.  The correct way to pronounce that portion of the word is the same as the word "goon".  say-goon-doe.  DYN en espanol, segundo means "second"?  You know, as in after first.

Then we come to San Pedro (remember: where Ports O' Call is located).  I still say it wrong, which should be my clue how to say it correctly.  And I admit, I do get a bit embarrassed when my 8-year old nephew corrects me.  I see the "e" in Pedro, and I say "pee-dro".  Wrong! Wrong!  Wrong!  Every self-respecting SoCallian knows right! right! right! is "pay-dro".  Now you know.

Enjoy the video.

5. The Beat Goes On

To complete my Hawthorne tour, we travel to the corner of Hawthorne Boulevard and 119th Street.  On the SE corner is Chips Restaurant.  This restaurant has been a Hawthorne staple since the late 1950's and is considered one of the few remaining buildings with what is known as the Googie Architecture Style. 

Mere yards from Chips is St. Joseph Catholic Church, which was formed in 1915.  Click here for more of their history.  Even though I do not consider myself affiliated with any particular religion, I definitely appreciate the architecture and love that went in to many of the houses of worship across the United States.  St. Joe's is no exception and is still very well-maintained inside and out with many beautiful stained glass works-of-art windows.

What you may not know is that this is the church Sonny Bono was married in.  No...not to Cher, but to his first wife in 1954.  (FYI! The video shows the St. Joseph chapel that my aunt and uncle were married in and is the main chapel in use currently.  When Sonny Bono was married at St. Joseph, this chapel did not exist yet.  The chapel then is now the gift shop and other church buildings across the street.)

St. Joe's is also the church my aunt's family frequented.  Any of you younger gals reading this may be a bit shocked to know that neither my grandma (who lived with just one house between her and my aunt's mother) nor my aunt's mother ever learned how to drive a car.  Luckily, for my aunt's mother, Letitia, St. Joe's was in walking distance.  Her mother was a devout catholic, a wonderful woman and saw everyone as beautiful.  She was active at St. Joe's for years until she was no longer able to get around without a wheel chair.  And then, bless the church, they would send representatives to visit her.

The other thing I remember is in the early 1960's when my aunt and uncle were married at St. Joe's, because my mom and dad were not Catholic they were not allowed to be in the wedding party as a bridesmaid or groomsman.  My how things have changed.

The one Hawthorne claim to fame I did know about before becoming your Hawthorne Tour Guide Goddess was that Quentin Tarrantino filmed the diner shots in "Pulp Fiction" at the no longer there Hawthorne Grill.  Since the Hawthorne Grill no longer exists in the physical world, I could hardly get digital footage of it.  However, it's legacy will live on as long as people view the film "Pulp Fiction".

As I am sitting here trying to think of a clever way to end this, it occurred to me that there is one last thing that still exists that you may find interesting if you every find yourself in Hawthorne.  You will notice it if you ever travel by vehicle, bus or foot on Hawthorne Boulevard.  It is the way the street is set up.  Before malls and shopping centers, there was a town's main street.  For Hawthorne, that was Hawthorne Boulevard.  To accommodate the growing need for parking as the town grew, parking was added to the middle of the street.  This method of parking can only be found on Hawthorne Boulevard in Hawthorne.

4. Skate Park 90250

Okay, today's subject is actually Eucalyptus Park (Inglewood Avenue by 120th Street) in Hawthorne, California.

Back in the early 1900's in Hawthorne's pre-infancy, eucalyptus trees covered the land.  (If you're like me you can spot a tree, but...so to see what a eucalyptus tree looks like, click here.)

Without knowing the name of this park, I've simply referred to it as Skate Park 90250.  The 90250 refers to Hawthorne's zip code and relative closeness in numbers to that infamous zip code 90210.  To not be a total copycat, I've tried to pitch the Skate Park 90250 concept to no avail.  After visiting the park, maybe I understand a little better why.

Personally, I'm not much of a park goer.  If I'm going out in nature, the beach is my first choice. I love to sleep in.  Not that I can't be a morning person.  If I'm up, I'm happy (most of the time).  Still, sleeping in is my first choice.  I almost shocked myself then by deciding to get up early to get some footage of the park and Hawthorne High School (HHS), home of the Cougars and the original Cougar Town.com. 

Monday through Friday the park doesn't open until 3 PM.  Okay, these are some of the things that seem a little sad to me compared to Minnesota living (although not enough to ever make me want to move back).  The hours were created specifically to help curb skateboarders and the like from playing hookey from school to be at the park.  Since the park is pretty much across the street from HHS, one might think that would be unnecessary.  Apparently not.

Saturday and Sunday the park opens at 9 AM.  You can understand my amazement as I was filming the park from across the street (which I can't seem to find this footage now), wondering what time it is while noticing the Park Rangers opening the gate to the concrete skating area, it must be 9 AM. 

On my way back from HHS walking north on Inglewood Avenue, I first walk past one of the free parking lots into the south area of the park.  This area incorporates into its design many posts that have been beautifully decorated with bright and shiny yellow, blue and red broken tiles.

At this time of the morning with the sun peaking beams of light through the trees, the park is still and peaceful with very little activity.  The park almost brought me to tears.  I'm not a crier.  So allow me to explain.

As I was admiring the craftsmanship of the tile decor, I started thinking about everyone who has ever been a part of the history of this park.   Someone or someones had an idea to build this park and put the physical manifestational wheels into motion to create the park.  From there architects, builders, maintainers and park goers past, present or future have all contributed to the uniqueness that is this SoCal destination. 

Having said all of that, you will note if you watch the video that I stop filming because I am advised by the park rangers that it is prohibited.  The conversation didn't end there.  I let them know why I was filming and asked if they were sure.

"Yes!  Rules are rules."  No cameras or filming without permission from either the city of Hawthorne and/or permission in the form of a release from anyone using the fenced off with a locked gate, concrete skating area.  The concern: pedophiles.

Okay, I know that seems like a legitimate concern, but again...how sad.



I asked the ladies at the gate why they had to be watching the gate.  Pads.  Just so you know, the park is now serious about enforcing the use of pads in order to use the skate park area.

In my research for this blog, I googled my cousin, Eric aka Barney.  Eric considers Eucalyptus Park to be his main park even though Eric doesn't skateboard.  Eric is a BMX trick biker.  ESPN had put together a recent video showcasing the local BMX bikers at Eucalyptus Park at night.  My cousin added the pad enforcement seemed to be deterring a lot of the "bad" element from the park.  While never having used pads previously, Eric mentioned geting some now so he could continue using the park.

I leave you with a link to the blog that included the ESPN video.  Click here.  Thanks. Enjoy.

California Historical Landmark No. 1041, 3701 W. 119th Street, Hawthorne

Did you guess it?  This landmark is a monument dedicated to the Beach Boys, the American Rock Group, as their wiki page suggests. 

I figure most people have a reason for doing something even if it's "just for the fun of it".  Well, "ProBlogger:" by Darren Rowse and Chris Garrett (to find out more about this book, click here), suggest you blog (which BTW, did you know blog came about by combining the words web log?) about something you are passionate about and start close to home.

I chose the Beach Boy Monument because it is located in Hawthorne, CA. Even though  I was born in Inglewood (as I found out about Brian Wilson was born in Inglewood, the town just north of Hawthorne), I consider Hawthorne my home.  It's where my favorite and maternal grandparents lived since the mid-50's.  So, after my immediate family (dad, mom, siblings) moved to Massachusetts and later to Minnesota, visits were to Hawthorne.  My fondest memories are of Hawthorne.  Plus, it doesn't hurt that the most western line of Hawthorne is a scant four miles from the beach, which I love, love, love.  Did I mention how much I love the beach?  Love it!  Moving to Hawthorne in 2004 just seemed like a no-brainer.

Hawthorne, I found out just 'cuz of this blog decision, was incorporated in 1922.  It will be another 13 years before we celebrate 100. So, when my mom and her brother moved to Hawthorne in the mid 1950's, Hawthorne was just in infancy.

For those who don't know, there is SoCal, which is short for Southern California.  In my mind this is Santa Barbara and south to the Mexican Border.  There's Los Angeles, L.A., the city.  There is Los Angeles the county, which covers a huge area, including Malibu, and including what is known as the South Bay.  Hmmm, why don't we call it SoBay?  I digress.

South Bay consists of Hawthorne, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach and Torrance.  Hawthorne is like the center diamond in the South Bay by viture of its location.

While our L.A. neighbors to the north, Beverly Hills, are the 90210...Hawthorne is the 90250.  Funny, why isn't someone creating a show around our town?  We have over 87,000 inhabitants.  Over the years some fairly infamous people have lived here like Jim Thorpe and Marilyn Monroe, as a younger girl.  For many years it was the home of Mattel, home of Barbie and Hot Wheels, before Mattel moved to El Segundo.

So I live in Hawthorne and I have a Beach Boy connection via my Uncle Larry, Hawthorne High School (Go Cougars!) class of 1960.  My Uncle went to high school with Brian Wilson.  Of course, back in those days during the high school years, Brian Wilson was simply Brian Wilson, HHS student, like my Uncle Larry.

By May, 2005 when the Landmark was dedicated, I'd already been back in Hawthorne for over a year.  Over four years later, I still hadn't visited this monument that is less than two miles from my home.  Now granted, I understand I am under no obligation.

After the decision to commit to this blog, the decision to visit the landmark was made.  Decisions flying all over the place.  I hope I didn't hit anything.  My uncle was nice enough to join me. 

When I got to the monument, I was delighted to see it was a little more substantial than I'd expected.  It's located where to me, I would refer to as "off the beaten path".  If you are a fan though, may be worth it. I was glad my uncle met me there because he knew that back in the day the Wilson home was located where the monument is, but no longer thanks to Highway 105.

The video I include with this blog also includes a very brief look at Hawthorne High School.  Their mascot, the Cougars, inspired an alum to start a website many years ago with an address of http://www.cougartown.com. This was well before and had nothing to do with the current slang definition of a cougar or the new Courtney Cox show of the same name.

My one comment about Hawthorne High School is about how different it and other SoCal schools appear to be architectural-wise compared to where I went to High School in New Hope, Minnesota, E. J. Cooper Senior High School, Go Hawks!  The schools are very spread out and open.  The schools in Minnesota, not so much, as you can imagine due to weather concerns.  That's right!  It gets f***in' cold in Minnesota.

So, thanks for sharing this with me.  Now watch the short video.  Please?  Please.

Dedication

I wish to dedicate this blog to:
1. coming home
2. My aunt and uncle, (who when you think about Hawthorne, CA being incorporated in 1922) who have lived in Hawthorne since the mid-50s have knowledge galore about Southern California (SoCal). So when I moved back to SoCal after many years, they were awesome in so many ways but for being my personal SoCal tour guides. And their son, Eric (aka Barney, BMX trick biker), who has lived here his entire life and is a joy and font of SoCal info.
3. To my friend, Ericka, who not only introduced me to her brother who is the romantic love of my life, but by traveling with me to Hawaii almost five years after moving back to SoCal, which ended up being the inspiration for me to see my home, SoCal, with new eyes and fresh love. And, ultimately the inspiration for this blog.
4. my family who I love dearly and my continued love for the Divine and all that is Divine...for while this blog is about sharing outer destinations, it is only because of my inner journey that I have the confidence to put myself out there for the world to view and share with.
5. For all the awesomeness that is SoCal with such diverse and wondrous places to explore.

Blessings and Namaste to all. For all is Divine.

Honoring Mahatma Gandhi's Birthday October 2, 2009

Did you know that some of Gandhi's ashes are in SoCal? It's true.

The author of the book, Autobiography of a Yogi, Paramahansa Yogananda, was considered by Gandhi to be one of his gurus and friends.

I have a saying I borrow "fighting for peace is like screwing for virginity." Gandhi was an example of what is possible with peace.

So, it seems only fitting that some of Gandhi's ashes are enshrined in what I feel is one of the most peaceful places on the planet, the Self-Realization Fellowship Temple: Lake Shrine. (Of course, I haven't been to every inch of the planet, but...) To visit their web presence, click here.

The video with today's blog is just a small taste of all you may experience at the Self-Realization Fellowship Temple: Lake Shrine.

Located on the infamous Sunset Boulevard in Pacific Palisades, California, this peaceful oasis is barely a mile from where Sunset Boulevard and the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) meet.

Since this is one of my favorite places in all of SoCal and I feel thrilled to have it be my second post ever of this blog, I'm just going to explain to you how I love to enjoy this destination.

Saturday's between 9 and 11 am are the best day to go in my opinion (unless it is raining and then they will be closed). As I get off of Interstate 10 going north on the PCH...well, I just am in such joy at my first view of the ocean for the day. There is a reason I consider myself Ocean Dork Bjork. It's about a good five miles or so along the PCH before I see where to turn, the gas station with the Taco Bell. I'll stop later.

The following is not a commercial for Taco Bell, but I love Taco Bell. Okay, not so much for their food, but for their Baja Blast Soda. Only place you can get it is at a Taco Bell. I was thinking in my head the other night about places I might consider for this blog and for some reason Taco Bell popped in my head. I was thinking the Taco Bell closest to where I live is my favorite. Then there's another on Sepulveda that would have to be my second favorite. Then I didn't know after that. If you think about it thinking of Taco Bell or Starbucks as destinations is so pop culture. Truth is the Taco Bell at PCH and Sunset is my favorite. What would Gandhi think?

As you drive up the quarter-mile on Sunset Boulevard from the PCH (literally it's uphill), on the right is the entrance to what in my opinion is ShangriLA in L.A. You really have to have your eyes pealed for the entrance. I always drive slowly along this stretch to make sure I don't pass it.

Parking is free. For me, I start at the gift shop/bathroom area and begin the circular path. Before I get to where Gandhi is enshrined, I'll veer over to the lake to see how close the two white male swans are or if I'll notice any of the many koi or turtles. I love the turtles there. I don't know if it is the law of attraction or what, but I swear every time I go I see more and more than the last time.

Then I'll go pay my respects to Gandhi. Officially it is known as the Mahatma Gandhi World Peace Memorial. Next stop is the statue of Krishna overlooking an amazing waterfall.

My next stop is the Houseboat. Here's why Saturday morning is your best bet if you want the full experience. I am a fairly frequent visitor the the Lake Shrine but because the houseboat was always off limits to go into, I assumed you never could. Then I found myself there one beautiful Saturday morning before 11 am to find that is when the houseboat is open for meditation. Think what you want of me, but as I sat in the houseboat that morning tears streamed from my face I was full of such joy to finally have access.

Lake Village was dedicated in 1950. The Houseboat is older than that, yet in pristine condition. Paramahansa Yogananda would sometimes use it as his residence.

My next stop is the little dock where you can get a great view of the Koi fish and feed them, as well.

As I follow the path, my next stop is the windmill. The bottom level is set up as a sanctuary and perfect for meditation.

Following the path, you come to a garden with monuments to all religions. My final stop is the building which houses a mini-museum about Paramahansa Yogananda, who is credited as bringing yoga to the U.S., and a gift shop.

On my way back from the center feeling all blissed-out from the Lake Shrine experience, I stop at the aforementioned Taco Bell because they have outdoor seating allowing me to gaze glassy-eyed out into the vast majesty that to me is the Pacific Ocean, which allows me to wallow a while longer in my blissed-out state.

As I turn left onto the PCH, I am not quite ready to go home yet. Almost immediately is an area where you can simply pull your car over. Parking is free. I get out of my car to find a comfy spot to ocean watch. Okay, truth is that this area is a favorite spot for surfers. Also, at low tide this is a great place to enjoy a beach walk.

On these days, I like to feel like time is not a factor. I stay at each place for as long as I feel I want to stay and then move on.

In closing, I wish to thank Mahatma Gandhi for being such an excellent example of the power of peace.

I, also, wish to thank all of you who have read this far. Since this is only my second blog post, I'd like to take a moment to mention that you will note I purposely intend to only write what I love about any destination I write about leaving out what I may not have cared for. There is a method to my madness. As humans we can be highly suggestible to others opinions. What I don't care for may be something you care for. Thus, I don't want to presuppose you into expecting you will find something about the experience you don't care for. Thanks again. That's all.

The Grove

Welcome to my first post. I write this from the very balcony I captured the digital images you see in the video I included with this blog.

I just finished looking at a book about Blogging for dollars. I really was looking to find books on getting better at using my video camera and better at using my editing software, Sony Vegas. Couldn't find a book on either and found the blogging book.

Californication is about to start a new season on Showtime and for whatever reason the Californivacation popped into my head a few days ago. I felt like it would make a great blog.

I live in L.A. and have for the last five years. I'm also one of those rare people who is a California Original. I was born in Inglewood, the City of Champions.

When the Californivacation popped into my mind, while the word play delighted me what would I do with it?

In 2001, I went to Vegas not for the gambling, but to visit a spiritual guru. During this trip, I was fortunate to spend time with a native of Las Vegas. In my opinion it was sort of like seeing what's behind the curtain compared to the "norm" of what most think of as the what to do and where to go when visiting Vegas.

This May I was fortunate enough to visit Hawaii. I love it. Can I just say? I was so enthralled with the beaches and the beauty. I almost didn't want to leave. I refer to myself on occasion as "ocean dork Bjork". I love ocean beaches that much.

I mention this because once I returned and started filming many of the beloved ocean beaches in SoCal (Southern California), I saw my home in a whole new light. It too has so much beauty if one has eyes to see it. When I shared this with a friend, we discussed how a person who lives in L.A. could probably spend an entire year exploring someplace new in SoCal and still have barely scratched the surface of what is available.

As I move forward, my intention is to explore Southern California and report back. I intend to explore some obvious and obscure destinations. In the process I'm sure it will be a lot of fun. I, also, hope to inspire you to feel like you are getting a more "behind the curtain" look at SoCal while providing information to help you plan your next, more fulfilling Californivacation: SoCal Style.

And so we begin.

P.S. About The Grove. The Grove is a shopping center in Los Angeles. If you love to shop, you'll love The Grove. Here's some 411 about The Grove. Just to the north of The Grove is CBS Television City. Celebrity sightings happen often. If you watch TMZ, the Cheesecake Factory they are always catching David Spade in front of is at The Grove. If you love hanging at Barnes and Noble it is one of the largest. There is an American Girl store at The Grove. Just west of The Grove is The Los Angeles Farmers Market, which is celebrating its 75th Anniversary this year. There is so much to see and experience in the Farmers Market alone that it just may beg another Blog dedicated to trying something new there once a week.

The Grove is a bit more upscale and pricey as far as malls go. You are paying for the atmosphere. Oh, and there is a beautiful pond with a mini-Bellagio style water show and an amazing clock atop Nordstrom's. Their Christmas decor is worth seeing, as well, especially for the kids.

The Grove has a parking ramp for easy parking. The first two hours of parking can be validated by purchasing something at any of the shops, even if you simply buy a cup of coffee in the Barnes and Noble cafe. Parking is $3/hour otherwise with a $20 cap per day.

For more info, click here.