Today is Fabulous Friday. I call it that because all Fridays are just superb. The weekend plans always look bright. Instead of a usual post, I thought I would talk about missing Los Angeles for a bit.
To be honest, I never thought I would miss Los Angeles or at least as much as I do. I’m not an LA native but definitely a westerner by birth. However, before moving to Los Angeles, I spent 12 years on the east coast. I regress… So, of course, I miss the hubby, the puppy and my home but I also just miss Los Angeles. Here are a couple of things that I miss about LA.
1. The ever dependable sunny day. Need I say more? Gray skies just don’t appeal to me.
2. Dry heat. I am not a fan of humidity although I know it is good for the skin. And it makes my straight hair frizzy and my curly hair puffy! And my face and skin feel like I need a bath on a high humidity day. Give me my dry 80 degrees any day.
3. I never have to look at the weather channel. It is either warm, really warm, or super warm.
4. The laidback nature of almost everyone you come across. (Although this no-rush attitude can be a bit bothersome when you are in a rush or need something quick in a restaurant or store, I have come to appreciate the “no worries” perspective versus the “I have super attitude” ‘tude.
5. People are generally happy. This item piggybacks on number 3. In NYC, many people seem unhappy, bothered and sometimes outright angry. The “F” word is a part of the everyday vernacular. (I hope it’s not contagious.)
6. The LA roads. Strangely, I miss the ability to use my car everywhere I go. Some people enjoy a subway or bus – not this caramel bella. Give me my car any day. Maybe it is something about controlling my surroundings and air conditioning.
7. Along with number 6, I miss the glorious valet. In Los Angeles, parking is never a big issue because there is always a valet ready to take your car upon arrival. It is the little things that make you feel like royalty.
8. Beaches close by. Just knowing that I can get to the beach in less than 20 minutes is a wonderful feeling.
9. Palm trees line the streets. If you squint really hard and look past the LA smog, you might look like you are in the Caribbean.
10. Anything is possible vibe. Los Angeles has this dreamer’s energy to it. People come to Los Angeles with dreams of doing something – acting, modeling, starting a business or just re-making themselves. There is something invigorating and hopeful about that energy.
11. Metaphysical place. Believe it or not, Los Angeles is the spot for all things spiritual. You can find a Buddhist, Mormon, Christian, Jew, Hindu worship centers all in about a 5 block radius. 12. Diversity. Although Los Angeles can be a bit segregated (by neighborhood), the diversity cannot be overlooked. There are so many different types of people by ethnicity
13. Come as you are. There is no need to get dressed up or feel like a certain attire is required in LA. Jeans are welcome everywhere. I love that. No matter where you go or what you do, wardrobe is never an issue. And it also inspires a fashion freedom only found in Europe. (Of course, that is my opinion.)
14. Pedigree not as important. On the east coast, where you go to school and where you work is of utmost importance. Not the case on the West side. Instead of starting a conversation with “oh, so where do you work?” or “what do you do?” The more common question is “do you yoga?” “do you surf?” or “what do you do on the weekends?” Feel free to insert any outside activity or hobby in place of yoga or surfing. Again, Los Angeles is about who you want to be. Your job and education don’t define you. You define you. I love that..
Oh, how I miss Los Angeles but will do my best to relish every single New York day. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Post a comment and enjoy your Friday!
Smooches,
The Caramel Bella
As some of my bestest (yes, I know it’s not a word) friends know, I am the star apprentice at CNBC this summer – destined for greatness. Hey, if I don’t say it who will. (This is the subtle art of positive thinking and affirmation at work.) Anywoo, one of our anchors, Erin Burnett, has made to the limelight. The New York Times wrote an article about her on Sunday, July 20th entitled, “Needing a Star, CNBC Made One.” Check it out.
Ms. Burnett has achieved my goal – becoming a TV anchor and reporter success. And she is all that she appears to be – beautiful, smart, friendly and full of smiles for everyone she encounters. I wish her the best and I hope to follow in her fortune-laden footsteps.
