How to Survive A Plague at The Nuart

Posted in Breakfast, Documentary, Explore, Film, Food, Fun by

Location: 11272 Santa Monica Boulevard, West LA

Just past the congestion of the infamous meeting of Sepulveda and Santa Monica Boulevards, under the ramp of the 405 freeway, and immediately to your left – rests one of my favorite L.A. movie theaters, The Nuart.

Though it’s apart of the Landmark family, The Nuart keeps that off-beat theater vibe well in tact from the marquee down to the strictly independent and documentary focused programming you’ll find here.

It was a more “fall-esque” Monday evening. The weather a bit chillier than it had been and the sun setting a little earlier than in recent weeks, a small indication that Autumn is slowly making its way to Los Angeles. After a quick and cheap breakfast for dinner stop at what used to be Delores’ Restaurant right down the street from the theater (that’s changed menus twice and now its name – spawning a much more mediocre dining experience), we headed back to the theater to learn “How to Survive A Plague.”

{Breakfast for dinner – always a good idea.}

What a powerful and thought-provoking way to start the week. The documentary chronicles the New York activist scene fighting the lack of attention from the US government, hospitals, and drug companies to the raging AIDS epidemic stealing the lives of millions in the gay community beginning in the early 1980’s and until a treatment was discovered to survive. Most impressive about the film is that it’s mostly compiled of and told through the use of archival footage of old Act Up and TAG activist meetings, media coverage of protests/demonstrations across the country, and personal home video.

I left the theater feeling like I had a solid understanding of the struggle it took to get medication, education, and compassion towards what was a modern American plague only 30 short years ago. I couldn’t help but think about how a similar uprising could benefit the millions of people in Africa as I type this sentence battling the same disease, among arguably even worse circumstances.

I highly recommend this film for anyone who wants a crash course (for lack of a better phrase) into a hard-fought battle over basic human rights and the AIDS virus, or for anyone who just needs some inspiration to go out there, follow your beliefs, and “Act Up.”

You’ll be surprised what you can do when you don’t give up.

American Rag Cie

Posted in Accessories, Breakfast, Brunch, Explore, Fashion, Food, Fun, Handbags, Shoes by

Location: 150 South La Brea Avenue, Mid-City

American Rag. This place is bittersweet for me. On the one hand, I love the idea of killing some time sifting through vintage clothes looking for that perfect one of a kind piece that I can throw on and say, “look what I found!”

Unfortunately, the handful of times I’ve been to American Rag I usually kill some time sifting through the clothes thinking, “I can’t afford this crap!”

Don’t get me wrong, I admitted it’s a love hate relationship with this shop. The place screams “trendy” just in the clientele that’s perusing the aisles next to you. It’s pretty clear that stylists from all over town are looking for special outfits for that next photo or film shoot; while you’re simply looking for something that you like, can afford, and actually fits. If your wallet doesn’t quite expand so far as to justify spending $100 for a shirt, the best times to visit this place seems to be when things go on sale. What fun it is to try on sweaters during the hot sticky summer days to save 30% on something you can’t wear for another three months anyway.

Unfortunately, a notorious reputation looms over American Rag (and I share a somewhat similar distaste) with some of their staffing choices. At times, it’s been great, no problems. Hooray! Other times, that LA hipster vibe is alive and well. I recall buying a belt once and the guy at the register acting like he was doing me a favor because I was shopping in the almighty American Rag and got to leave with something.

As with any vintage shopping trip, the key is just to decide to head in and look around but for not anything specific. You might find something that appeals to your fancy, you might not. My experience has been the latter here and it has much more to do with the over-pricing versus the selection.

I have consistently better experiences when I wander next door to the connecting Maison Midi boutique. Still expensive, but ultra-cool to take a peek in if you’re looking for something on the home front. Awesome perk? Seeing huge plates of food walk past you from their in-house cafe. I’ve never eaten at the Midi Cafe, but not to worry, it’s on my bucket list and you’ll be the first to know when it happens. Stay tuned.

As for American Rag, take this place and its hype with a grain of salt. It can be a great experience or not. Either way, you’ve been warned.

Blu Jam Cafe

Posted in Food, Treats by

Location: 7371 Melrose Avenue, Mid-City

Blu Jam is an awesome place for breakfast if you have some time on a leisurely Saturday to wait up to an hour for a table during their busiest time, but I was in a rush on my way to the office and decided to perk up my Monday morning not too long ago with a quick stop here for the best latte fix on Melrose! I don’t know what it is that they do differently to their caffeinated beverages, but I suspect is has something to do with that blender behind the counter. It’s the last place the mixture of espresso beans, milk, and vanilla powder meet before the perfect shade of tan hits my not so eco-friendly plastic cup. Rich in taste, creamy, and cool. $4.50 well spent. And while not much cheaper in theory, a superior alternative to those who are currently pissed upset with Starbucks for screwing over disappointing their Gold Rewards members last week by removing soy milk and syrup on the house to its most loyal caffeine addicts. Here’s to supporting local small businesses and sticking it to “the man.” 🙂

(Shhh – don’t tell “The Bucks” but Blu Jam’s coffee is better anyway).

T’was a happy dance on a Monday. Well, as happy as you can be for a Monday morning (strike 1); sitting in traffic (strike 2); contemplating what you want to do for the weekend, but realize you still have 5 days to go (strike 3).

Have a great week and may it be full of caffeine!

Autumn

Posted in Beauty, Fashion, Food, Treats by

Fall officially joins us tomorrow. Unfortunately, in Los Angeles, it couldn’t be further from the truth. Summer seems not to want to let go in harsh protest from the 100+ degree weather we’ve been enduring for the last few weeks.

The transition from Summer to Fall is always bittersweet for me personally. I’m a California girl through and through. I love summer dresses, warmer temperatures, sunglasses, beaches, iced lattes, shorts, flip-flops, sunlight until 8:00pm, and days when you can roam the city streets without lugging a sweater around. Gratefully, Fall brings equally fond happenings as well: boots, scarves, pumpkin spice lattes (pumpkin everything!), Halloween, Thanksgiving, and a mellow coziness to the air.

While it may take a few more weeks for the weather to catch-up with the calendar, I’ve been making a few special preparations to enjoy the upcoming shift in the climate:

On the make-up front, I recently stumbled upon Bobbi Brown’s Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks and found the perfect new warmer tone for Fall. It’s my first time using a cream blush, as opposed to powder, and I’m really enjoying the versatility of it. Color: Milk Chocolate.

{Photo Courtesy: Cupcakes and Cashmere}

Thanks to the great taste always highlighted on fellow blogger Emily Schuman’s addicting Cupcakes and Cashmere site, I’ve found my first new wardrobe splurge for Fall. Sweater: Free People.

I cracked my coffeepot a few days ago while hand-washing it in the sink. It was a very kind second-hand gift for my new apartment, which really bummed me out. The bright side was that I went out and bought a new one earlier this week and didn’t break the bank. This coffee maker is programmable to brew at any time (so I’ve been waking up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee every morning), is perfect for one person, and the carafe is stainless steel – so there’s no way I can break it in the near future. Here’s to many cups of delicious homemade coffee in celebration of Autumn temperatures.

Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall….eventually.

3 Nights In The Dark

Posted in Documentary, Explore, Film, Fun, Independent Cinema by

Somehow I’ve managed to spend the last 3 nights in a row in the familiar darkness of a movie theater. I’m very much cinema obsessed, but even this was quite unusual for me, unless it’s catching as many films as I can stand during a film festival.

What I loved about this experience was not only hanging out with my guy and unwinding in one of my favorite ways;  it was also because all 3 films couldn’t be more different, more poignant, or more entertaining, and all three places had their own charm for watching them.

Venue: The Cinerama Dome

Location: 6360 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood

Film: The Master

The Master, widely acclaimed and a front runner to see a salute during the upcoming Oscar season in multiple categories, tackles the taboo subject of what is reportedly based loosely on the similar development of Scientology, by exploring “The Cause.” Joaquin Phoenix, the epitome of the lost soul, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman, as The Master, take the viewer on a journey of what is prescribed within “The Cause” to be of help to those in pain. In reality, it seemingly becomes a manipulation of how those in pain who seek peace fall into cult-like circumstances through a lacking solid spiritual foundation. The film is masterfully shot, well-written, and well-acted; though admittedly, might take more than one viewing to really absorb the intricacies of the plot. A special treat to catch this in Hollywood’s Cinerama Dome in 70mm.

Venue: Laemmle Music Hall

Location: 9036 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills

Film: Girl Model

I have to say that it’s pretty surprising how such an old, run-down, but charming theater stays open in Beverly Hills of all places. The following night, Girl Model became the cinematic experience of the evening. The 1 hour and 20 minute documentary follows the story of a 13 year-old Siberian girl, a former model turned scout who discovered her, and a small cast of supporting characters seeking success as they maneuver through what the film portrays to be a total scam in the over-seas modeling industry in Japan. The film was upsetting to me. From the young age of these girls being sent to another country with limited life experience and language skills, to the horrific measures girls go through to try to make it in the business. While I was already very much aware of the negative talk, harshness, and rejection models must endure as they build a career, I was surprised at how both main characters in the film seemed unhappy and completely depressed though they continued to push themselves further into the business that was creating these feelings. This film is not for those who seek the glamour in the modeling industry, but an honest and disturbing portrayal rarely shown to audiences.

Venue: Laemmle Town Center 5

Location: 17200 Ventura Boulevard, Encino

Film: Arbitrage

My second visit to the Laemmle in Encino, and final night at the movies this week, had me on the edge of my seat in Richard Gere’s Arbitrage. Gere is on top of his game as Robert Miller, a man of great power, influence, and wealth in the New York City business district. Unfortunately, he also a man who lacks integrity. Miller finds himself in a series of self-created circumstances forming a web of complications in his career and relationships. His continued influence and lack of integrity spin him not only deeper into his troubles, but guide him through the film unlike any ego you’ve seen recently on-screen. I was surprised to hear of possible Oscar buzz from Gere’s performance.  I was every ounce entertained and loved being in the shady labyrinth that Gere spearheads, but I would be shocked at an Oscar nomination. Typically, these pop-corn suspense films are overlooked and while I enjoyed his performance, I didn’t see what was “Oscar” about it. Then again, Jeremy Renner somehow got on the Academy’s good side in The Town a few years ago. I rate this one, a great time at the movies.

p.s. I was always struck by the uniqueness of the title of this film. I had to head to Dictionary.com for this one:

Arbitrage: 1) Finance. The simultaneous purchase and sale of the same securities, commodities, or foreign exchange in different markets to profit from unequal prices. 2) Authoritative decision or exercise of judgment.

Dylan’s Candy Bar, Los Angeles

Posted in Explore, Food, Fun, Treats by

Location: 6333 West Third Street, Mid-City

Boy, was I like a kid in a candy store a few days ago. Literally! Welcome to the newest addition to The Farmer’s Market at The Grove, Dylan’s Candy Bar. I’ve never been to the popular New York flagship location so I didn’t know what to expect other than wall-to-wall candy. I was not disappointed. The well-designed, brightly lit, and colorful interior couldn’t have been more perfect. You’re instantly in sugar land from the moment you walk in the door. The smell of fructose is overwhelmingly alive in the air. The chocolate fountain is a sight to see. Endless bulk candy and chocolate choices are all around for the taking spending.

{Chocolate fountain.}

{Bulk candy.}

At $12.99 a pound for bulk selections, the price is steep (especially since candy is naturally pretty heavy). While the different packaging options were cute and a nice souvenir, they were also on the pricey side. Don’t expect to leave with a spiffy Dylan’s branded container filled with any candy of your liking for less than $15.00. Somehow this didn’t bother me so much. The point of stores like this is to splurge and enjoy the environment, so go in with that mindset. All of this stuff is overpriced!

{Regular packaged candy selections.}

{Interior, Hot Tamales bin (yay!), specialty packaging options, goodies for sale.}

I managed to leave with 4 chocolate candy bars and only $10.00 less in my bank account. It’s funny how in stores like this you’d be willing to spend a bit more on candy, but would blow a gasket anywhere else at the thought of spending so much on sugar. The lady next to me at the register racked up $52.00! As of writing time, I have yet to try any of the candy bars (I know, I know) but I’m really looking forward to indulging in the 4 Belgian chocolate choices I walked out with: Red Velvet Cake, S’mores, Brownie Batter, and Milk Toffee Crunch.

{My purchases.}

{Halloween.}

{Registers.}

{Full store view.}

Fire In The Hills

Posted in Film by

The start to the weekend could have been right out of a movie. You have the unsuspecting main character (yours truly) surrounded by chaotic and life threatening circumstances, unbeknownst to her. I had been in my own world most of the day trying to catch-up on some reading (which led to some light napping because of how comfortable I got), separated from all electronic devices. It wasn’t until I got a phone call that I came out of the dark, put my book down, and walked over to my window towards the light. The sky was filled with smoke! The hillside of the infamous Sepulveda Pass was on fire, and I had plans that night that necessitated driving right through where the flames were ablaze to get there.

{View from the freeway.}

Thankfully, there were no injuries or structural damage; and luckily, traffic wasn’t too unkind. I made it to my destination for the night without much more hassle than usual for a Friday evening.

Coincidentally, while my life seemed right out of a movie at the moment, I was in fact, headed to one. Past the fire in the hills and down the highway, waited a special evening marking the 50th Anniversary and newly restored 70mm Lawrence of Arabia screening on the Sony Pictures Entertainment studio lot.

{Tickets, candles, and linen.}

The event was quite the soirée. A welcoming cocktail and light appetizer hour started the extremely warm-weathered evening. The nearly 4 (yes 4) hour film was a treat not only to view among the people who worked on the beautiful restoration, but because it was my first time seeing the film and those bright blue piercing eyes from Peter O’Toole. True to form as you would’ve experienced it 50 years ago, the film had an intermission. Cocktails and now light desserts were on hand during the small break – very classy.

What I admired most about the film was the grandeur. The sweeping and vast shots of the Arabian desert. The camels ever-moving nature frame by frame. The film envelops you into another world almost immediately. I had to remind myself of where we stood technologically over half a century ago. There were no digital cameras or intricate digital composting techniques the way we often rely on in today’s film-making arena. To build work with such richness, such storytelling, such atmosphere and complexity…well, what an achievement and worth literally driving through fire to get to.

{The night’s venue.}

Strawberries and Chocolate

Posted in DIY, Food, Fun, Treats by

Strawberries and chocolate are always a good combination. Recently, and more often than I’d like to admit, I’ve been satisfying my sweet tooth with this timeless meeting of flavors. I’ve fine tuned a method (the lazy way) that works to enjoy this as an easy, quick, and healthier late night snack. What I love about this as dessert is the melted warm chocolate against the cool sweetness of the strawberries. I find you only need a few because of the richness of this treat. All you’ll need are clean fresh strawberries, chocolate chips, and eager taste buds.

{Place a small pinch of milk chocolate baking chips in the microwave for about 2 minutes.}

{Stir the warm chocolate until smooth and creamy.}

{Serve.}

{Enjoy.}

Highlights

Posted in Books, Dinner, Film, Food, Fun by

Can you believe that we’re halfway through September already? I could have sworn I just paid rent! My goodness, how time flies. Thankfully, there were a few moments from this week that made an ordinary day, pretty extraordinary:

{FOOD.}

Is it me or does pasta taste better on the second or even third day? Monday night’s dinner was a huge highlight and success, in part because I dined on leftovers from my recent visit to Osteria Coppola. I warmed up the chicken lasagna in the oven, as opposed to throwing it in the microwave, to let it cook slowly and develop a bit of a crunch to the top layer. Things always taste better from the oven. I must remember this mantra when I don’t have the patience to wait. A quick homemade side salad and a glass of ice tea and I swear I was in Italy in my own house.

{FILM.}

By far, one of the greatest experiences this week was seeing Celeste and Jesse Forever. It’s an awesome off-beat dramedy, with a nice salute to Los Angeles. Rashida Jones (could she be anymore gorgeous?) and Andy Samberg do a superb job bringing the highs and lows of a complicated and deteriorating relationship, but an everlasting friendship to the screen. I LOL’d, felt my eyes water, and had a smile on my face the whole time. I also fell in LOVE with the music in this film and was on Amazon.com within an hour of getting home looking to purchase the soundtrack. Unfortunately, no soundtrack exists, but thanks to another fellow blogger I was directed to a playlist created on Spotify with all the film’s songs. “Drifting In and Out” by Porcelain Raft is my new chill out song. This will be added to my collection later this year when it’s released on DVD for sure!

{FUN.}

I’ve been doing a lot of reading this week, which is a nerdy love of mine. I’m currently reading The Cider House Rules by John Irving. I still have quite a way to go before my next book club meeting. I’m very much enjoying it, but it’s 561 densely packed pages!

Have a great weekend!

Visual Aids

Posted in Breakfast, DIY, Food, Inspiration, Treats by

I’m certainly one of those people who always appreciates aesthetics and very much consider myself a visual person and learner. A friend of mine had fresh strawberries on her desk one day that looked amazing and my taste buds started salivating. It then occurred to me how I could incorporate more fruit into my day and in a more celebratory way. I decided the best way to do it, was to have it in a place where I could see it, smell it, and enjoy it.

When I bring fruit with me to work, I typically just eat it right out of a zip-lock bag or in a piece of tupperware. How boring! I took the time to be a bit more mindful with my fruit intake and work with that side of me that likes things to “look pretty” for lack of a better girly expression. I made myself a small bowl of fresh fruit that I could place on my desk to snack on throughout the day. It was not only a beautiful reminder of the season just outside my window, but was an easy way to have a healthier alternative around me when I was craving something “not so healthy.” Placing the fruit in a nice china dish and arranging it to my liking set a very special tone (and brightened my desk) as I went about my work day grabbing a strawberry here and a grape there. Think of when you see a really intricate and colorful fruit platter at a party: aren’t you more inclined to walk over, appreciate it, and eat it? It’s all about visuals!

It was then that I became even more inspired and by fruit of all things!

Though summer will soon wind down, I’m realizing how important it is to have beauty (natural or created) around you in any capacity as much as possible. The simplicity in some red grapes and strawberries on my desk was wonderful and worked at getting me to ensure I was eating more fruit, but I want to incorporate my new visual aid experiment into other areas. From how I serve my meals, to displaying jewelry at home, to the arrangement of my closet, I find that this matters to me more and more as I get older. It makes enjoying the small things all the more enjoyable. Here’s to the last days of summer fruit, celebrating presentation, and “pretty things!”