Wednesday, February 20, 2013

LA Love: Scenic Variety

To be honest, I'm quite tired, so this will be a quick post. However, it doesn't take away from how much I love this aspect of LA.

I have never been so close to so many different areas of interest. By that, I mean how close I am to the beach, the mountains, flatlands, crowded cities, small towns, forests, and so on. I can head half an hour in any direction and arrive at any place my heart desires.

I've often visited Santa Monica and Venice, being two of my favorite places down here. However, I have also discovered some lovely little gems by driving up the coast. It's so amazing to live so close to the beach, and I only wish I'd taken more advantage of that fact. Luckily, I hear San Diego is quite close to some beaches, too. =)

Heading North towards the grapevine are beautiful, rolling hills and mountains. You can find the Hollywood Hills, littered with houses in the lush greenery. Driving the grapevine, though terrifying at times, is quite a breathtaking drive, should you be able to gaze out the windows. Oh! And unbeknownst to me for almost 6 years, if you drive up near Altadena into The Los Angeles National Forest, you can be transported to another place. You don't even realize you're in LA anymore, as you hike along creeks, discover hidden waterfalls, and relish in the glory of nature. Just... marvelous.

The main areas of LA can be quite congested, but I'm particularly fond of some "smaller" towns, such as Pasadena. I actually lived in Pasadena for my first 7 months here, and truly enjoyed it. You know... minus living in a tiny hotel room with two other people, surrounded by hookers and drug dealers as neighbors. But hey, we sure have some stories!

Not having a car the last few years has certainly been limiting, so it's difficult to embrace every scene... seen... here. (SEE what I did there??) However, the convenience of having these options within arm's reach has been a true treasure. When... when there's no traffic. Which... there usually is... but okay, let's keep this positive people!!!

This is definitely one of my top picks for why I like... mayyybe even love... Los Angeles. It's funny... I've been so used to griping about LA, I almost forgot everything I appreciate about it. This countdown was probably the best idea I've had in a while. As someone who tries to stay positive in every situation, I suppose I need a reminder to do so here and there. So, here's to you, LA! 3 down, 23 to go!

Wow... 23 days. Creeeeeper!

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

LA Love: The People

There were many reasons I was happy to leave Fresno. Though I do miss many people from my hometown, I was craving something more... one of those things was culture. Now, moving to Los Angeles is not exactly like moving to a foreign country or anything, but one cannot deny that it is a melting pot of various backgrounds and walks of life. It's one of the things that makes this city so beautiful. There are few places you can visit where you can meet so many different people.

I know people from all over the world.
I know people who are still learning English.
I know people who don't know it at all.
I know illegal immigrants...
They're some of my closest friends.

I know people who grew up here.
I know people who moved here for their dream.
I know those following it.
I know some making it.
I know some who did...
and I know some who never will.

I know people who live in the Hollywood Hills.
I know people who live on the streets...
and will probably die there.

I have met, known, and loved many different people here. I have been exposed to various cultures, various upbringings, various reasons for even being here... I have learned more about people in my six years here than my entire life. And I have loved every minute of it. It's incredibly refreshing to be able to walk down the street and meet someone new, every day. I may not like everyone I meet, and I may never see them again... but I have also been exposed to some of the most loving people on this planet. I have written before that I really "found myself" here in LA, but the people who have loved and appreciated me for that person is what I will remember most. The journey holds a special place in my heart, but the acceptance and love is what shines bright in my heart. In my soul...

But that's for another post. What I'm really focusing on here is the diversity of people I have had the chance to meet. Take for example, the cafe I work at. The cafe AT WHICH I work... darn prepositions! Anyways. I work in West Hollywood, and a good majority of our customers are the students and staff from the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute. Many of these students are from other countries, including Germany, Sweden, France, etc. I get to see these people on a regular basis. Also, many of the jobs I have held have been in customer service, where I often serve tourists. So I get to meet people from all over the world, and even chat with them. It's such a wonderful experience, conversing with someone from somewhere you've never been! Especially for me, having never been on a plane or past Colorado. Yes, you heard me right! Don't even start...

I have also worked in Beverly Hills, where I met many tourists, celebrities, big wigs at big wig companies, and so on. I have spoken to some incredible people, who have done projects even you've heard of, and even call a couple of them friends. I have connections I've never used. I guess I care about the relationships more than anything, and I'm okay with that.

In my neighborhood, some of the nicest people, whom I see every day, don't even speak English that well. Two different markets I often visit are owned by two different people from two different countries who BOTH continually make my days. One of my best friends, whom I see almost every day, can just barely communicate with me. He's like a brother to me, and we laugh more than I laugh with most people. And I laugh... a LOT. =)

More than just backgrounds and cultures, I have met fascinating people down here who have opened my mind to many different things. Being exposed to so many different opinions and experiences has created an environment for me where I can really figure out how I feel about certain issues. These issues can be political, environmental, my own health, my own life, all of our lives, anything... I have my own issues with picking a side (on any fence, really), and having a variety of brains to pick provides information from every side, every belief, every... thing. I love having numerous friends who all think a little differently. It keeps me on my toes, and inspires me every day.

As a writer, as a people-lover, as a person: I will always have LA to thank for its marvelous diversity, shaping me into a wiser, more mature, young woman. Yes, I said young! I'm young until I say I'm not anymore!

There are many things I really do love about LA, as you will soon see. The one thing I will always be appreciative of, and eternally grateful for, is the people.

The people I've met.
The people I've lost.
The people I've loved.
The people I've fought.
The people who lived.
The people who died.
Those I made laugh.
Those I made cry... which I'm totally sorry for! <3

Every single person, every single time.
I've loved you all <3

Monday, February 18, 2013

LA Love: The Weather

I think the obvious love of LA to begin with is... the weather! Known for its sunny skies and beautiful days, Los Angeles provides some of the most consistently gorgeous weather throughout the year. And who the heck doesn't love beautiful weather all the damn time?

Apparently... me.

Don't get me wrong, I love a sunshiny day as much as the next person, but all the gosh darn time?? As a writer, and an emotional songwriter at that, I need dreary days and rain to inspire me. Luckily, LA does get those here and there, just maybe not as often as I'd like.

Regardless, Southern California is a beautiful place, with beautiful weather. We also get some of the most breathtaking sunsets. Without giving too much credit to the smog, I have seen some of the most amazing colors in our sunsets. Pinks and purples light up the sky, kissing the city goodnight. If you get a good seat, you can bear witness to a skyline of building tops and towering palm trees, all lit by these brilliant colors.

It's always a little funny to me, though, how everyone freaks out when it rains or drops below 70* here. I guess we're a little spoiled, but if you're used to something, it's difficult to adjust when you get something else. On these days, however, I smile BIG. The first rain we received this last winter was such an exciting day for me! I actually ran out of the cafe and stood in the slight drizzle of an oncoming storm. There's something about rain falling from the sky that makes me feel whole... like the world cries, too. It inspires me to write, enjoying the company of a familiar misery. I enjoy these days to the fullest, lighting candles and incense, and knowing full well they may not last very long. However, as soon as I'm craving a little sunlight, out comes our notoriously friendly sun, warming the land once again.

So, although I may not be a fan of the weather being perfect all the time, we do get a little rainfall and some gray skies here and there. And as if Ms. Nature knows when I've had enough, the sun always shines on a new day. I'm sure San Diego won't be too much different in the weather department, which is fine, but I'll always appreciate the sunny days of LA, and the dreary skies that poke holes in its perfection.

LA Love: The Countdown Begins

Saturday marked the first day of my 1-month countdown to change... in other words, my big move to San Diego and decision to pursue music full-time.

WHOA! One more month?!
Oh yeah... it's sneaking up on me... creeper.

On this beautiful Saturday afternoon, I was in a taxi, heading to work, when a peace washed over me. I felt a calming reassurance that I had made the right decision, and all will fall into place as it should. Gazing out the window, I also realized that Los Angeles isn't so bad. In fact, there are many things I will miss about this eclectic city. In that moment, I decided that I would have a countdown of my own, blogging style. A countdown of all the things I love about LA, segueing into my next blog. You see, I want to conclude this blog on a happy note. Once I move, I will begin a new blog, chronicling my new journey and adventures in music. For now, I want to enjoy this city for all its worth.

Enjoying this city actually screwed up my countdown already! I wanted to start Saturday night, but my good friend Robert "dragged" me to see Dane Cook, front row and center. (Did I mention we met him after the show?!!) Having an early morning on Sunday, I slept instead of blogging. 'What about last night, Shaneil??' Well, my weekly visit to my favorite bar lasted much longer than I expected. I ended up meeting two incredible people from Florida, and spent much of my evening chatting with them about music.

As you can imagine, I'm okay with missing the last two days. I experienced some wonderful... experiences... throughout the weekend. Today, however, the countdown begins! Starting later this evening, I will post every day, detailing something I love about LA. I've grown in some really incredible ways the last six years, and am eternally grateful for every heartache, every adventure, every person, and every lesson I've learned. I'm excited and ready to move, but also aware of the impact Los Angeles has had on me.

I will not leave in anger.
I will not leave with regrets.
I will not leave a bitter "has-been" of Los Angeles.

I will leave with a love in my heart, a skip in my step, lessons learned, and character built. I will leave with an appreciation for everything I've experienced in this great city. So, Los Angeles, these next handful of posts are all for you, and everything you've taught me. Let the countdown... BEGIN!!

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

X Marks The Spot

We spend much of our lives searching for peace,
yearning for love,
aching for purpose,
praying for change...

We don't expect to find it all in one place. But I think our deepest desires tend to go hand in hand, all found in the core of your soul. Something, someone, may touch that spot with their heart and leave you forever changed. I have been incredibly blessed in my life to have met and befriend... ed? many amazing people. Never have I met so many so quickly. And it all began with one person.

My Sandi Bear.

Over the last year and a bit, I have come into contact with some of the best people I know. Most of these people have been through my very best friend, Sandi. She is something else, I tell ya'! When you first meet her, you see exactly what I mean. That smile, laugh, and loving touch that she bestows upon everyone she meets. She is one in a million, and I will be forever changed having known her. Even better, she loves me just the same.

And how did I come to meet such a wonderful lady?

Another amazing person, Sam. Though Sam and I never got that close that quickly, we always remained in contact, and when I really needed someone, really needed a friend, he was there. Anyone read my last blog, A New Beginning? Remember when I was fired from Starbucks? Well, the day it happened, Sam was the one person to come over, just to give me a hug. Just to show me some love on an awful day. That "awful" day became one of the greatest days of my life. Not only did I spend the entire day sightseeing, drinking, and karaoke-ing, but Sam was joined by the spectacular Sandi, visiting for her last day from San Francisco. She was thinking of moving to LA, loved my apartment, and moved into my building. We also became instant friends, spending every moment together. My life has never been the same.

Now, I'm getting ready to move to San Diego, joining these two amazing people on a new journey in life. Last night, they played a SENSATIONAL show in North Hollywood, and even called me up to sing a song with them. The feeling of just jumping up there and going for it... amazing. Have I used the word amazing yet? Everything is just simply... amazing.

The peace I crave,
the love I yearn for,
the purpose I seek,
the change I so desperately need...

It all lies in this move. No matter what happens, this entire journey will better me. I don't know where it will lead yet, but I have two incredible people to share it with. It's as if I discovered that buried treasure, deep inside of my soul, screaming to come out... calling me to that spot, guiding me towards the light. It shines so bright, it blinds the night. Or something deep like that. The point is, I'm making a step towards a better future for myself, and a happier existence. And one little show proved to me that I'm ready. I'm no longer afraid, I'm ecstatic! It's like that bouncer knew...



"Hey girl, you found it."

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Dream Catcher

*Mrs. Doubtfire's voice* Hellooooooooo..... !!!

HUSH.

I'm in a really, pretty great, actually fanTAStic mood! The last couple of days were amazing, and here are about a million reasons why! Okay, maybe just half a million. Okay, it's nowhere near a million. If I keep saying million, this may turn into a rap song... let's move on.

If you're reading this, you probably saw my post on Facebook regarding the "best night of my life". Sorry, the "BEST NIGHT OF MY LIFE!!!", to be exact. Wellll folks, here is why! I was fortunate enough to travel down to my soon-to-be-home in San Diego, where I stayed with 3 of my best friends, and attended the DELTA RAE concert! "Who is Delta Rae?" you may ask... Google them. Youtube them. Follow them! They are amazing, and a huge inspiration in my life, for so many reasons. Here's one:

How about the entire reason I'm moving to San Diego??

Yup. Truth. Their story, music, and passion are the reasons Sandi Bear and I even talked about really going for it... really trying... really doing music. Now she and my buddy Sam are down there, as 22 Kings, making amazing music and actually starting a business around it. It's their JOB... to make music. Amaze balls. In just over a month, I will be joining them, to do the same. Ummm.... SUPER AMAZE BALLS.

After this last trip down there, I've never been more excited to start this new journey! Yesterday was one of the best days I've had in a very long time. Walking the streets of Ocean Beach, I felt at home. The shops, the people, the overall vibe... so wonderful. I felt my soul heal just a bit, walking around this area, promoting my sensational friends (who are playing the San Diego brewfest this Friday!). I felt peace. I felt love. I felt... happiness.

Oh, and then we went to see Delta flippin' Rae in concert!!!!!!!!

Have I mentioned that? Oh, okay. Have I mentioned how two amazing young ladies in front of me became my quick friends? Or how one of them got the setlist for me at the end of the show? Or how I met the entire band and got them to sign it?? AND THEN TOLD EACH AND EVERY ONE OF THEM HOW MUCH THEY'VE INSPIRED US?!!! Oh, I haven't? Well, NOW YOU KNOW!!!

Okay, so I was a bit of a 12-year old meeting them. I don't care. I love them. Their inspiration pushed me in a direction I've longed for my entire life... to face a fear I've held for years... to pursue my passion... and love it. No matter what happens, my life is about to change. And I can't wait. I just. can't. WAIT.

All of them were incredibly nice, warm, and supportive. I loved meeting them, I loved the show, I loved San Diego... and I love my friends. I can't wait to be with them, following our dreams. There's nothing else to really say... I've got work to do, love to share, and dreams to chase. The sky limits me not... I soar when I fly.



Yes, I am a crazy person. What of it?!