It seems like yesterday I moved to California, but in reality, it was at least a couple of weeks ago. Or possibly almost seven years. Time truly flies. Has it lived up to the hype? Well, I haven’t seen anyone famous yet, which is a little disappointing if I’m being honest. But otherwise, I’m very happy I made the move.
This weekend, I was contemplating all the things I love about California and thought I would share a few of my favorite things with you.
This was my first real glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. Manhattan Beach will always hold a special place in my heart because it’s proof that dreams do come true. I live in LA, baby!
I don’t get to the beach as often as I’d like, but when I get the chance, I kick-off my flip flops and race down to the water. I love walking in the ocean, feeling the squishy sand between my toes. It is my happy place.
I love the farmer’s market and the easy access to great fruits and vegetables year-round. Even better, there is a farmer’s market close to my home. In the winter, I enjoy juicy, sweet oranges and savor succulent peaches in the summer. And I can’t forget …
I remember the first time I saw a strawberry stand in February. I made everyone in my office sniff them and they kindly indulged me. Although now that I think about it, that’s kind of gross. 🙂 But they were unbelievably sweet and juicy. And did I mention it was FEBRUARY?
I love food. And you can find all kinds of great food in LA, but my hands down favorite is Mexican food. LA has the best Mexican food outside of … well, Mexico. So, so good.
Ever since I moved here, I no longer like wearing closed-toe shoes. My toes demand to be free! Previously, I wore shoes with heels and a bit of a platform to make me taller. These days, I’m all about flip-flops. The only time I don’t wear flip-flops is when it rains, then I begrudgingly concede to wearing closed-toe shoes. Thankfully, it doesn’t rain often.
And last, but certainly not least, is Max. He is one cool Cali kitty. He’s mellow (except when he’s not!) and one happy kitty. If he could speak, I’m sure every sentence would include the word, dude. “Dude, are you going to stop working and play with me?” “Dude, are you going to get up and feed me?” “Dude, I’m totally sorry that I knocked over Emeril’s picture and cracked the frame.”
So there you go—a few of my favorite things that make it worth putting up with the high rent, high taxes, traffic congestion and the Kardashians. 😀
Great post Tanya! Very fun. I can’t believe you’ve been there almost seven years! Remi just turned eight, so I guess that’s right. (I can’t believe my baby is eight already!).
Glad you are so happy in Cali!
Remi has gotten so big and she is beautiful – just like her Mama! It’s amazing how fast time flies. It really does seem like yesterday I was packing my bags with a big ‘ol pit of fear in my belly. Thankfully, it turned out great!
I am not a flip flop kinda gal but I too would love to live that close to the beach. You are so lucky Tanya!
And the farmers markets sounds delicious. Most of the fruits and veggies in our grocery stores are flown in from California.
And I love your pic of strawberries in chocolate. Nothin better!!
I heart flip-flops. I was more of a typical sandal girl back in MN. These days I’m always rockin’ flip-flops! 🙂 It’s awesome having such great access to fruits and veggies. The first time I bought oranges I picked up 5 or 6 and ended up eating 3 that first day. Probably gave myself a stomach ache but it was worth it! Glad you liked the strawberries with chocolate fondue – it’s delicious and easy to make!
Sicorra shared your post with me because I share the same love of flip flops and I also have a thing for the beach.
I used to wear heels too for height but I’m over it now 🙂
Awesome pics…love the cat!
Sicorra is the best! 🙂 Sounds like we have a lot of things in common. Heels are painful, and it’s not like anyone actually believed I was tall. Flip flops are just comfy. These days when I wear a pair of heels, I wobble all over the place. LOL! Max is a great cat, except when he plays during the middle of the night and wakes me up!