Category Archives: Life

Life

Homecoming

For as long as I can recall I’ve had what was before a bit of a quiet obsession with France.  Growing up with a Grandfather who traveled the world a zillion times.  Even going to Epcot at DisneyWorld meant that I could finally make my way to my beloved.  (Or at the very least, a kids view of what Paris must be like).  Then the weekend of my 21st birthday I found my dream of going to Paris finally fulfilled.  I honestly cried when I made my way out of the Metro for the first time to find the L’arc de Triumphe so graciously welcoming me to her city.  Studying in England allowed me to discover Europe, the joys of traveling and most importantly the incredible freedom I feel when traveling.  This is where it all began for me.  Thankfully for years following I often found myself vacationing in France.  From dating a head Chocolatier and touring France with he and his family to moving there on my own in my late 30’s- just two years ago, Ahem….

The other night I decided I needed my “fix.”  Time to get home, I felt.  So, just like that- trip purchased and excitement in my heart.  I’m going home!!  It’s not about going to see the “typical Parisian hotspots” it’s about just being.  There.  To walk those streets fills me beyond belief.  There are no words to explain the feeling I get in that beautiful place.  Much of the time I’ve spent in Paris have been just me, myself and I.  Perhaps that’s part of the reason I love it so much.  For I love to get up, grab a noisette and a baguette and hit the streets.  From its diverse landscape of cultures and people, to the most divine architecture and layout- Ohhhh Paris how I love thee.  I’m anxiously awaiting the morning smell of the boulangerie baking some of the most succulent treats to be found around the globe.  Walking through pristine gardens that offer hours of relaxing moments to yourself or to cherish the laughter of children and families playing by your side.  Not to mention Paris at night- truly magical.  Something about the soft lighting, tree lined streets accented by classic Haussmann buildings.  You know you’re experiencing some of the best of history under the soft light of this spectacular city…and often under the shining beam coming from the Eiffel Tower.  C’est magnifique!

Life, Travel

a Gringa in Havana

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My love for Latin culture runs deep.  The irony is I have no idea why.  I grew up with German roots in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and yet a salsa song comes on and you’d think I’m busy celebrating my very own Quincenara.  I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy many incredible adventures to Latin countries- from Colombia to Costa Rica and now to Cuba.  I’ve wanted to go to Cuba for so many years I’ve lost count.  When Obama opened up travel, I was thrilled for the chance to finally learn more about this country, it’s people, arts and music and get the Real Real on this country.

Needless to say, I was a bit…..hmmm, how shall we say, oddly surprised?

I know my expectations might be slightly off- The spirits of Buena Vista Social Club Streets playing throughout the streets, while couples dance Salsa with reckless abandon.  Instead, it was more like streets ripped apart, riddled with trash, clearly uncared for, for decades.  This country has endured a lifetime of entrapment, not only NOT moving forward….not staying as-is either, as nature still manages to take its course in dilapidating and further breaking down not only the land, but also the former captivating architecture that Havana is so known for.  This stunning beautiful buildings crumbling all around.  And not just in the outer areas- the inner cities that welcome tourists.  It is not hidden, as may be the case in other cities. People residing in buildings that have no windows, floors consisting solely of rubble.  Trees growing out from where the foundation used to be.

Inspired and stunning architecture still remains within the soul of this city.  Even if most of the buildings appear to be blown out- as if a war had taken its toll.  Though in reality, most of these buildings being owned by the government and unfortunately not upkept by its residents has turned this great potential into a sad reality.

As you walk the streets you can feel the pain this city has endured.  From the many years of revolution and take over from other countries.  This is not a city to be taken lightly.  For it’s people have incredible heart and determination.  Not to mention loyalty.  To my surprise everywhere I turned was either the image of Che or a memorial of sorts for their recently lost Fidel.  I’ve never been to a communist country before this excursion and I was apparently a bit surprised to learn, experience and bear witness to life within.  And yet with all of this said, this place is still hopeful.  The locals offer smiles beyond the struggle.  With the spirit and soul to believe that one day Cuba can truly be Cuba Libre.

Life, Travel

Created in Cuba. 99% Diseno Cubano

When traveling I often search high and low to find something that truly speaks to not only the country but also the culture of its people.  I didn’t have any great expectations when going to Cuba, except for the typical Cuban souvenirs of cigars and rum.  To which I returned with neither of them.  Throughout my travels, I often have a hard time trying to find the right purchases that truly speak to the country.  Visiting Italy and France were surprisingly disappointing when hoping to find unique couture that spoke to their incredibly rich history of fashion.  And it seems across the world we have become so global that these same brands make their appearance around the world.  From the H&M’s to the Zara’s of the world.  Believe me, I mean no disrespect as I’m happy to support them too. However, when I travel I want something authentic and hopefully something that ultimately benefits its people who reside there.  And in this case, I FINALLY was successful.  Although we truly happened to stumble upon this place, it was a total diamond in the rough.  For many of the streets throughout Havana can be a bit questionable in places.  This is what gives this places its rich flavor and diversity though finding this little place, Clandestina was certainly a welcomed and celebrated discovery.

Clandestina is a boutique that offers upcycled EVERYTHING.  From t-shirts, to cosmetic bags and totes- their entire inventory had lived a previous life as something else before.  Since I am such a bag lady I decided a Cuba cosmetic bag was an essential take away from this adorable store.  I also found the “need” to purchase a neon green handkerchief donned with T-Rex all over it.  (Imagine, the heat in Havana is so intense, I justified this purchase by thinking I’d use this to keep myself dry in the humidity of the city)  Haha.  Whatever helped justify something I didn’t truly need.  Though I felt the need to support this business.  Not only was it a way to repurpose but also a new hope for Havana- cleaning up what otherwise would end up in the trash and instead offered the elderly of Cuba a chance to make money.  So, apparently my purchase was justified from the moment I walked in the door.  Besides, we were on a People to People trip- no better way to contribute than in supporting and promoting their efforts and forward thinking.

It was apparent through this trip that many are trying to move Cuba forward, past all the struggle and open to creating new opportunities for all.  We rented an AirBnB and on the last day of our stay, the woman who came to clean our place told us about the reality of making money in Cuba.  As she sat at the table folding white paper and glueing them together to make envelopes for Tourist to purchase items from the locals- like myself.  I noticed I already had many of these same bags in my possession from shopping the local markets, that she had made for the tourists.  The sad part about it all was that she had to make 100 of these envelopes to make $1.00.  Talk about perspective.  This is where you truly dive into the culture and it’s people to see how people are living across the world.  She was such a hard worker with the most incredible spirit.  Instantly my friend and I realized here was another chance to give back to the people of Cuba.  We left her Nike’s, Michael Kors sandals, a boat load of toiletries and so on.  It was the least we could do to support this woman who was striving to make a difference in her life however she could.  She showed us the incredible spirit and dedication to keep moving forward to create the Cuba that this society has yearned for, for lifetimes.  Cuba Libre!!

For your chance to support their efforts-
http://clandestinacuba.com

Life

It’s the little things…

It would appear as though I’ve been on a bit of a hiatus.  Sometimes LIFE just happens and you can get all caught up in it.  Although I’ve been writing, I’ve been keeping most of my writing to myself.  For it’s been a great lesson to understand the vulnerability and openness that comes with “sharing” through a blog.  (Something I’m still learning to gage my comfort level)  I’m thankful I’ve been busy experiencing life, though I love nothing more than to take a moment to write and reflect on the “little things in Life” worth noting.  Like today.  I was touring a client at Westfield Century City and arrived early so I walked the center to check in with some of the retailers.  As a man who, at first glance might appear to be not necessarily homeless, though not someone you’d more than likely to stop and chat with.  Nonetheless, I offered him a smile and he quickly responded:  And how are you today my sister?  “I am well, my friend”  I responded.  That was it.  You would have thought two friends were reunited at that very instant.  For he then went onto tell me how he appreciated my smile and for it he had a gift.  He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small white rock.  He said that the gift was not from him, but from my grandparents.  (Believe me, I’m sure most might think…Time to go.  Walk away.  RUN!)  Though to me, this was a real gift indeed.  As I have grown up without grandparents as unfortunately they all passed away either before I was born or at a very young age.  And yet despite this disconnect to them, I feel so connected to my root of my family through them.  I relate so much to my mother’s mom who our family has forever joked that I am actually her reincarnated.  How’s that for a deep thought?!  So, needless to say, receiving a random white rock from a random encounter was pretty magical.  He then went onto say that just like the rock is strong and solid, that I am to remember that I, too am strong and that even when others try to break me to keep in mind my strength.  He said this was the lesson and gift from my grandparents.  I hugged this man and thanked him for such a kind gift. As he walked away, he told me that it is my smile that makes a difference in the world and offers a gift to others.  Words can’t describe the love in my heart as I walked along my path after a beautiful and random encounter with a complete stranger.  These small gifts are truly life’s most beautiful treasures.

Life

Full Circle on a Saturday morning

I wake up early on this fine Saturday morning to go and enjoy a relaxing morning and catch up on writing.  For me, writing is a beautiful way to recap life’s experiences and moments that, although may seem small at the moment, are truly what makes life worth living.

I arrive at Coffee Bean and Tea leaf, my usual spot for a latte and letting go in expressing my thoughts.  Though todays visit also came with an added bonus: inspiration.  Upon ordering, I see two men working on getting connected to wifi.  One of these men is a homeless local that tends to hang around, very peaceful and in his element, often just taking time to relax inside.  The other gentleman is simply lending a hand in helping him out.  It always warms my heart to see when there is goodness to speak of, that people take the time to help one another, even if just to get on wifi.

Moments later as I’m awaiting my delightful vanilla latte, I notice a woman going up to the same homeless man.  She says:  “You’re the one who helped push my car yesterday, aren’t you?”  With great appreciation and love in her heart, she handed him a gift card and thanked him for his assistance.  You could tell she was beyond appreciative and yet a bit intimidated to show her thanks to this “Stranger.”  And the beautiful thing about it was that he was humbled in his space, as if helping her was not even a thought.  That it was his duty to help her.  A person in need and that’s what he did…Second nature, nothing to be thanked for.  Though it is truly in these moments that I am thankful to bear witness to the beauty and simplicity in these gentle gestures of humanKIND.  From witnessing this man go from being helped to helping another, all within moments.  This is truly what makes life so sweet.  And a sweet vanilla latte to further savor the moment….ahh, it’s going to be a good day.  Happy Saturday to you.  May you experience a moment of humanKIND today.  (and everyday for that matter!)

Life, Travel

Let the Wind blow you….

Most of my life I have been a “planner.”  The ironies of it all, are that most of the joys of life come from the spontaneity of life, not through planning.  Though finally the winds of life blew me to Paris one year ago.  It wasn’t just a strong gale wind or anything that finally allowed…or shall I say, forced me to change up how I was living.  Though it was pretty close as it was one of the most powerful change ups of my life to date.

I had been through some major life changes, including my job which, although loving the company, the role itself had left me feeling unfulfilled.  Uninspired, lacking typical enthusiasm for the day to day made me realize something had to change.  I knew I wanted more for my life.  I needed a change…a surge of inspiration.  To LIVE and experience life for myself.  Not thinking about work, a relationship or what anyone thought or cared about how I went about my life.  Not to mention, I had come out of a very tumultuous marriage and I suppose was going through what maybe called a renaissance of my soul.

I had come to realize the many ways I went about, accepted and allowed life to HAPPEN TO ME.  I thought life is what you’re here to LIVE in, participate and engage in.  And at times, it feels that life is throwing you off track, though if you pay attention, it just so happens it’s not off course that you’re been thrown off, more like putting you exactly ON course, right where you belong.  Thankfully I had (finally) become tired of what I was allowing for my life.  I had given my self-fully to all that I am, for my entire life.  Even writing that now makes me overwhelmed just thinking about it.  The feeling of caring what others thought, working to “prove” myself to my job, my family and the like.  All while dismissing what I wanted and needed for my life.  To think about all the love, passion and energy I have poured into every job and relationship was enough to make me feel like a narcoleptic… and pass out on my keyboard right here and now!  And yet, its a struggle as I truly believe we are here to LIVE.  And with PASSION.  And to bring the very best of who we are to everything we do, touch, interact with.  This is my view of Life.

Though at times it can seem that giving passion and enthusiasm to life that you can end up feeling quite beat up at the end of the day.  So, I called my ‘soul sister’ to get it off my chest as I was simply drained.  After explaining that I can’t turn off my passion for what I do, as it isn’t how I’m programmed.  We went on to talk about random whatevers that we were getting into for our Saturday.  As we often talk in circles, tangents and a conversation that you think isn’t really going “Anywhere” in actually is going EVERYwhere.  As it often turns into some of the purest, most divine discoveries of some of life’s biggest treasures.  Soul seeking truths, all by talking about the random activities we do each day.  It’s as if life’s secrets and clues are being blown over to me, through the phone lines with my gal pal.  And it happens so organically that it I’m pretty sure it’s what you would call a sacred whisper.

I often wonder where the wind will take me and teach me along my path. Though I’m finding that it’s the day to day wonderment and paying attention to the magic that surrounds us that is the biggest gift of all.  To trust that if we surrender to life we can allow life to take it’s course and guide us on a beautiful journey.  So my friends, I encourage you to enjoy, embrace and let the wind blow you where it may.  I believe you’ll be pleasantly surprised to see where life leads you trusting in life takes you to places you hadn’t even imagined.  Better than what you could have even wished for.  Trust and let life guide you.  Enjoy the ride.  xo

Life, Travel

What’s in a city?

After spending close to three weeks in New York  to open the World Trade Center, I realized what the energy of a city can do.  Either a city can empower and invigorate (More often than not) while others will chew you up and spit you out.  Time out magazine wrote on the topic of: Does being a New Yorker make you an Asshole?  I found this to be very interesting especially as I travel the world hoping to make every place a piece of my heart…my inner fiber.  I’ve always had a strong love for New York.  Growing up in Pennsylvania allowed us to be far enough away to make it exciting every time we visited, though close enough that it allowed the city to feel like I was still a part of it.

During college I had the chance to study abroad in the UK, which was a phenomenal experience to which I feel I owe a great deal of my life’s most prized possessions to- that of exploring the globe.  This allowed me to embrace the fear of going to live out of your “norm” away from those you hold close to you both in your physical space and are your Life.  Leaving it behind for 6 months to survive on fish and chips, Shepherd’s pie and a slew of Guiness.  I get it that this might not be the most inspiring start to living overseas, it was real.  Especially for that of a college student…And from Pennsylvania.  It doesn’t get much more simple than that.  Though it opened up my eyes to see a beautiful world, full of many option, cultures and cities that needed to be explored.  By me.

After this experience and following graduation I decided my roots in PA had been nurtured and nourished enough for me to find my way to a new place to call home.  I considered NY since, as I mentioned, my love for this city is endless.  However, I figured if I already moved to the other side of the pond, why not venture to the other side of the country.  And that’s exactly what I did.  I had NO idea where I should go.  I knew enough from my vacations growing up, that California was a place that I certainly loved and considered even making it home.  Just had no idea where to go.  Friends from college considered joining me to strike gold in finding a new journey on the west coast, though no one ended up making it with me.  For this, like many, was a journey I was to make on my own.  (Though let me be real, most of the times I’ve fought this aspect of journeying by myself and yet I know traveling solo was the reason for my trip to begin with!)

I landed in glorious Newport Beach which was a bit of a culture shock, simply due to all the luxe lifestyle and living this little beach town had to offer.  I called Newport Beach my home for 7 fantastic years to then branch out further, down south to San Diego.  San Diego was the perfect place for me to find my way in the world.  I worked for 6 years as Marketing director of Fashion Valley.  At the time, the 3rd most profitable shopping center in the US.  And this was even in the down economy of 2007.  Luckily, it taught me a ton about business, pr and the true value of relationships.  Eight years later I was onto yet another…even bigger city to explore.  I took a brief sabbatical to Paris in the summer of 2015 which would end up being an absolute game changer!!  From here, my world opened like never before.  After heading to Europe to live, knowing no one, I knew I could go anywhere.

After returning from Paris, as much as I loved San Diego, I knew the wind was blowing me onto something new.  Something bigger.  Though I honestly didn’t realize it would be LA.  And this was simply due to the fact that I came here to be a part of something I was extremely passionate about.  And now… It’s been 6 months that I’ve called Los Angeles my home.  The place I vowed to NEVER move to.  The same place that every day instantly stimulates and a place that can be incredibly overwhelming at the same time.  It’s the second largest city in the U.S. so what else would you expect, I ask myself?  It’s everything I thought it would be and nothing like I thought it would be at the same time.  From helicopters to absurd traffic- this place is a zoo.  And I’ve realized that it’s taken a bit of a toll on my sensitive soul.  With all the energy I’ve got running through me to now be countered by the intense amount of energy that exists in this concrete jungle, it can weigh on me at times.  So, now it’s about finding the peace within, in this new city I call home.

In Newport, I was at the beach and in San Diego, I was by the bay.  Both of which offer a welcoming sense of tranquility- even if life is far from it.  And although it can be a bit rare for me to sit at the beach or lie by the bay, something about those locations, that were still closely connected to city offerings allowed me to still enjoy some peace and harmony.  And now, here I sit at CBTL on Sunset blvd and am very much aware of the fact that I sit on a patio- outside- though instead of feeling ocean breeze, I’m breathing in car fumes and listen as those from “the industry” talk about their next big opportunity.  And with all of this, I’m living each moment to truly experience this new city of mine.  For most of my adult life I’ve dreamed that I could be bi-coastal, to also experience living in New York, and I have to say I’m quite thankful having had the chance to spend weeks at a time in that glorious city and yet still call California home.  Because at the end of the day, Home is where you make it.  (Or at the very least, where you pack and unpack your bags!)  So, here’s to you, Lalaland…I’m all yours.  Whether you’re home for a year or a lifetime, I hope you’ll offer me a sense of comfort, home and peace in this crazy big city of yours and I vow to bring a little bit of sunshine and gratitude your way.

Culture, Life, Travel

Inspired trip translates into an Inspired life

Gallery

Growing up on the east coast has always given me a great sense of pride in being a part of what the east coast means to me.  I think of the east coast as fast paced, hard working, authenticity.  And this is coming from a gal who was born and raised on the east coast and yet has spent the majority of my adult life on the west coast.  Though the pride I have in being a true east coaster is one that I will cherish my whole life.

For over the last 10 years, I’ve worked in the retail world, or rather REIT’s, who develop own and manage most of the biggest shopping centers in the United States.  After representing Fashion Valley for over half a decade, I was ready for a new challenge to further utilize and explore my talents.  I had put it out in the universe that I was ready for something new.  At that same time, I took a journey with my cousin to Peru.  This country has some of the most magical and spiritual places this world has to offer.  During this exploration, we ventured to Aguas Caliente to visit Machu Picchu one of the 7 wonders of the world- that, by the way, is absolutely not to be missed! (If you’ve ever even thought about doing so-GO!!!!!  You will not regret it and your life will forever be touched by this incredible place. )  I digress…

We started our journey in Lima where we were fortunate enough to spend time with our friend Hugo and his family who quickly familiarized us with the country, the culture and the must do’s on the trip.  They told us that while in Machu Picchu to be sure to say a special prayer and think of the things we hoped for, for our lives as the “mama pacha energy” that is known to be at this historic, inspiring site can be life changing.  I recall it ever so clearly, sitting on top of this truly magical land and feeling love and energy running through me as I took a moment to ‘go in’, take a moment of reflection and meditation and honor this peaceful place.  (Albeit, with a couple alpaca’s and llama’s hanging out beside me, lurking about)

I had just come out of a devastating divorce and was ready for the next chapter to unveil itself that would allow for great growth and inspiration for my career, as I wanted to focus my previous challenges into something more worthy.  Well, let’s just say Hugo was right.  Less than a month later, I was recruited to work with my biggest competitor in the shopping center business.  And despite the feeling of having to don a Scarlet letter in moving onto “the other side” I dove into this new opportunity, feeling somehow that the Incan’s had a hand in this next step.  You see, at this time, the World Trade center was a project being developed by my new company, Westfield. And being an east coaster, I wanted to be a part of it.  The entire world felt the affects of 9/11.   Westfield was personally affected by that tragic day, losing some of their very own from their Westfield family.  I was beyond inspired by the opportunity to be part of Westfield’s passion behind this project- a chance for honoring, remembering and persevering despite the pain.

Fast forward to 1 month ago, when I had the honor of being a part of this center’s grand opening.  Working with my team, collaborating on these efforts was one of the most rewarding projects I’ve been a part of thus far.  Not only was I inspired to see the hours and dedication that was poured into all aspects of this center, I was fueled by the fact that the entire grand opening was a Family Day, created and dedicated to honor those touched by the tragedies that happened there.  The grand opening was a beautiful moment that completely touched and overwhelmed my heart.  In fact, at times it was hard to hold in all the emotion I felt simply being there, surrounded by thousands of people who were brought together to be honored.  Spending time with those so closely affected by 9/11 and feeling all the love in this sacred spot was truly remarkable.  I love my east coasters.  Though let’s be honest… we move fast, we talk fast, we want typically people to move out of our way.  And anyone who’s even visited New York knows that it can be a bit frantic and dare I say, an aggressive city at times.  And yet, on this day, there was such a sense of peace.  Of respect.  Of honor. Of Love, that overwhelmed my heart and made me thankful that a little vacation to a little place called Peru, opened up a new chapter in my life where I had the chance to contribute to a project of compassion, of heart, of meaning.  And on this day, the 15th year anniversary of 9/11 I can’t help but think of all those families who I spent moments with- being inspired by their strength, love and togetherness.  I will never forget.

 

 

Culture, Life

Old Soul dating in a New World

Fashion in a suitcase came about as many friends and family would often tell me that my life on social media and conversely, basically everything in my life, was built around fashion and my constant traveling around the globe.  For the last few years, many close friends, colleagues and randoms I encountered would constantly wonder why I’m single.  Perhaps it’s that I’m often not home?  Either way…it’s a question I often find perplexing as well.  And yet most of my east coast friends and across the globe are fairly convinced it’s due to the fact that I live in Southern California, where the forever  bachelors and bachelorettes reside.

It is fascinating to see how society assesses your value by these “things” that you have that define you.  You’re single?  Why?!  Do you have 15 toes or a boat load of cats?  Surely there MUST be something wrong, if you’re single.  And yet the majority of people I know who are single are still, in fact, quite fascinating people who live very full lives, they just do so alone.  (and more often than not, not by choice).  So, with that being said, I find myself single and ready to mingle in 2016 and self admittedly more confused on how the process works then simply how it “use to work.”  It seems increasingly more challenging to date in a world where technology runs our day to day existence.  It’s not a matter of meeting someone you run into at a family function, a wedding, or through your work place (which I’ve always found to be somewhat of a sketchy idea) though it is ever commonplace.

After years of trying to go about it the “old school way” by happenstance, it turns out I just happen to remain single.  So, after years of fighting the concept of online dating, I have surrendered and caved in not being open to this new way of dating.  In fact, I’m as usual, a bit late to the game, in adapting to it since it’s not that new, it’s just that there are now a slew of options and app’s to do so.

So, here I go- diving into what everyone feels will be my saving grace for escaping singledom.  From Bumble, to Happn and the ever infamous, Tinder.  Though I have to be honest, after just a few encounters, trials and attempts, I have to say I’m even more disenchanted.  Sure, I’ve matched up with guys.  Plenty to speak of, though in my mind- albeit old school- it’s not a quantity game.  Plus, after matching up, where does it go from here?  I’m not into just a fling…Tinder…and I’m not into a game of texting forever in hopes there’s some connection via a wifi connection.  I’m the old soul who (still) believes and is convinced there is such “Something”…an energy…above and beyond attraction simply through filtered images.

Not to mention, even when you connect with someone there is the fact of “ghosting,” which is an ever present reality these days.  No explanation, no need for any further words, just poof- gonzo!  It’s incredible to see such a disconnect in humanity.  Or the (Who knew) reality of a Catfish?  The stories from friends experiencing all of this with “onAPP dating” has been beyond entertaining…and yet baffling.  It seems there’s yet another possibility to still be “considered” for future by what some are referring to as Benching.  Yep, exactly as it sounds- You’ve been benched.  So….you’re saying there’s a chance….but you’re just not sure.  Ahhhhh, yes….let’s wait and see if there’s a reason to meet up in future to determine if there’s anything to even worth considering in future. Seriously.  I’d rather be by myself, as I’ve chosen for a little while, as I seek a soulful connection, not just one based on drunken swiping to the right.  These days we are ever connected, ever turned on and yet ever checked out.  So, when I check in, I’d like it to be with someone who is able to do the same.  Call me old fashioned…I’ll take it as a compliment.  Come to think of it, perhaps I change my blog to Single and a suitcase?   Could be fitting.  Good luck out there, my single friends!

I think David Bowie may have had it right…#modernlove

Life

an L.A. story…

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After years of fighting and rejecting the thought of moving to L.A., here I sit…on Sunset Blvd, in my new hood of West Hollywood.  Who would have thought it?  Certainly not me!  The person who has detested and fought the very concept for all 17 years that I have been a resident of California.  Guess it just goes to show that in life, you simply just don’t know.  You have to let the wind take you where you are to be.  For me, I became an LA Woman by taking on a new role where I needed to be based in LA.  So now that the wind has blown me here…Now what?!

I was fortunately offered two months of housing while I find my way around this hustling, hectic and yet quite incredible new place!  I have to say that I’m falling for LA.  And this is again coming from the person that was against everything I thought LA was.

However, along with this excitement comes some of the crazzzzzy that LA is known for.  In fact, in my search for my new home, I had some very interesting encounters and experiences.  First off, I learned that most people secure a place and move within days.  No long leeway in securing an apartment.  Everything, unlike the traffic, moves at a fast pace.  And if you’re interested in making a place yours, you better come cash in hand and ready to commit.  I went to check out a 1 Bedroom in West Hollywood, along with 17 others.  17 people up for the same place?  And to be honest, this place wasn’t worth the competition that came with it.

Finding a place was a great way, if nothing else, for me to explore neighborhoods and parts of town I hadn’t even known of.  It was a chance for me to see that LA actually had much more to offer than I had ever given it credit for.  Stunning tree lined streets, charming architecture and adorable pockets hidden all over this city.  In fact, I found a 1930’s Spanish Colonial just driving around Robertson.  Called immediately and was able to move quickly.  The woman was from Pennsylvania, just like me…and we bonded over the fact that we were thankful for our east coast upbringing and how we valued the morals and integrity that came along with coming from there.  This was it.  This was my place.  A hand shake, deposit given, move-in date set.  Hooray, it’s official, I have a home in LA!!  Two hours later, she calls me back with great despair in her voice.  She begins by apologizing profusely saying she had another offer which she simply couldn’t refuse.  You see, another girl wanted this place as badly as I did.  Her father was a plastic surgeon and offered “Miss PA Integrity” with $300 more/per month in rent, though this grand offer came with something she valued even more.  It came with BOTOX.  Of course it did.  I mean, this is LA after all!  Needless to say, I can’t compete with units of face-freezing botox, so my dream of residing in this classic, cozy place went away like the wrinkles on her face.

Onward I go…the search must go on.  Driving up and down all the streets from Sunset south and back up again.  Found yet another place simply by exploring and driving up and down WeHo.  Called and toured immediately by yet another transport from the east coast.  Thankfully this time the woman was simply lovely to work with and when I put down a deposit, this time it was truly mine.  It’s a charming little community, somewhat of a (cliche and all)…Melrose place feel to it and is located just moments from the Chateau Marmot, which just so happens to be one of my favorite places in LA!

Sometimes it can be tough to navigate where you’re headed in life, though if you weather the winds of change and enjoy the ride…you may just end up where you never thought you would be and be happier than you thought.  Trust in life… and the course you’re on… and an adventure awaits!  May the constant winds of change guide you along a wonderful journey, through this thing called Life.  xo