BlogHer 14 – On My Way To San Jose!
by mitzimsa on July 15, 2014
This Newbie is Hopping Aboard the BlogHer Train!
As I prepare myself for travel to BlogHer 14, I find myself singing “Do You Know The Way To San Jose”. This song brings to mind such wonderful memories of my childhood and gives me much comfort, besides I love the sound of Dionne Warwick voice! The melody of the song is very sweet and light hearted but, once I started to listen close to the words I found them not as cheery as the melody. Seems to me the hopes and dreams of moving to LA didn’t work out and their tucking tail and getting the hell out of LA.
Most that know me would tell you that I’m never uncomfortable in any situation, not true; I’m just a true believer in “Never Let Them See You Sweat”. Since I’m a newbie, finding my prime real estate in this place called the blogosphere is quite a challenge and I often wonder if I arrived to the party to late. Late? I can’t be… how in the world would a girl with so much to do, say and see not take a stab in the world of words? So off to BlogHer I’ll go in hopes of gaining knowledge and contacts that will further my blog adventure.
With all the butterflies and anx that I’m feeling, I jumped right in… I registered as a volunteer, signed up for a buddy (mentor), been involved in chat rooms on Skype and threw myself into the lion’s den by signing up for a few events. Now that I’m days away from my BlogHer experience, I’m forced to focus on packing… oops, there goes those darn butterfiles again! Well, off to the chat room I go; let’s see what advice the veterns have on packing . If all goes as planned I’m sure I’ll leave BlogHer singing “Yes I know my way to San Jose” with the same found memories that I’ve always had when I heard the song!! BlogHer14 or Bust!!!
Wine Review- Foodies Wine Pairing Made Simple
by mitzimsa on July 9, 2014
A Wine For Every Main Course
Often I find myself in conversation about wine with friends and co-workers but when they start with the notes, watery edge, tannins and body comments….I’m like a fish out of water! So I do more listening then speaking and take their suggestions. I’m not opposed to sending a few bucks if the wine is good but I don’t want to go overboard, I’d rather spend the bulk of my money on the main course of the meal. I keep telling myself that I must take a class to learn more about wine. I enjoy red, white and sparkling wine but I have longed to know more about pairing what wine with what dish. When I purchase wine it’s all about my attraction to the bottle. The label and the shape of the bottle is what draws me in.
Exclusive Wine For World Market
Recently while at World Market, a set of cute bottles caught my eye while browsing the wine section. Dear Lord, you must have heard my call because I felt as if the heavens had opened up and produced this wine just for me. The marketing of this product is ingenious, my dilemma has been solved!! FOODIES, label not only looks expensive it tells me exactly which type of animal I should serve the wine with, “Now if it taste as good as the bottles looks, I’m in business.”
This wine was created for foodies and compliments a wide range of dishes, they were sure to cover every food group when producing this wine you can choose from Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Red Blend.
So far I’ve become a fan of the Cabernet Sauvignon and the Red Blend, though the Cab (check out my wine talk) is labeled for beef, the label also offers an education in the art of butchering. Thanks to Foodie I can now talk to the butcher in his language!
I understand that this brand was made especially for World Market, the taste is amazing and at $6.99 a bottle I’m looking forward to trying them all!
Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream – Oh what I would do with you!
by mitzimsa on July 8, 2014
I’m Screeming For Ice Cream!!!
It’s a few days before my first big BBQ for the summer and I’m on a quest to find plan old every day homemade vanilla ice cream. When I started my search, I found that homemade ice cream is defiantly a new craze in LA. Seems that everyone and their mama is making ice cream. You would think that I would be jumping for joy but nooo, hold your horse! If I was in the market for the she she, hoity toity, gourmet flavors and style of ice cream or maybe even gelato I could go in any direction of LA and be victorious! Oh yah, it appears that the masses are into soft serve, me I despise soft serve homemade or not. Come on people where in the world can I find HARD HOMEMADE VANILLA ICE CREAM!!!!
In my search I have ran across unique flavors tailored for different taste buds (as it should be) like Rose Water Saffron or Strawberry Balsamic for the vinegar lovers I guess. Even though I’m not opposed to lappen my tongue on either flavor to let my pallet make the decision as to if it tickles my fancy or not, I JUST WANT VANILLA for the all American holidays as well as the summer!!
Nothing Like Good Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream!
I’ve been dreaming of all the thing I could do with vanilla ice cream over the summer. The kids and come to think of it adults a well would love ice cream layered between two of my homemade cookies. I’ve even gone as far as to soaked some fresh fruit in my favorite liquor for that kicked up adult sundae. And by the way at some point during the summer I’d like to sip on a Root Beer Float?
Oh well since I’ve spent the last 2 hours searching, searching and searching I’m going to jump in my car and check out the creamery that’s close by to see if their product will make do. If not I guess it’s back to my original plan… Williams-Sonoma (my favorite cooking store) shell out a few hundred dollars on the beautiful Breville Smart Scoop Ice Cream Compressor machine along with fixins and back in the kitchen I go!
LEGO STYLE TREATMENT- GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL
by mitzimsa on June 24, 2014
BRICK BY BRICK GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL COMES TO LIFE
Time Lapsed Video Documenting The Creation Of The Grand Budapest Hotel
When you combine a Lego Enthusiast and fan of Wes Anderson along with over 50,000 Lego’s 20 days, 575 hours and a team of 10. You get a replica of Fox Searchlight Pictures The Grand Budapest Hotel!!
The model weighs in somewhere around 150 pounds, stands an impressive 7 feet tall and was first unveiled at the Los Angeles Gove on June 14th. Not quite sure where the reproduction hung out for a few days but on June 17th it headed over to the Twentieth Century Fox Lot for the release of the Blue-ray and DVD . Zero the Lobby Boy in the film accompanied the replica and was such a nice addition to the release party so to speak. The dust may have settled over here on the lot from the viewing but the movie is still flying off the shelves of the Fox Studio Store!!
THAT’S ONE BIG BUCKET OF LEGOS
34-year–old Ryan Ziegelbauer Lego enthusiast heals from San Diego, California (wonder if he works at Legoland) and is a big fan of Wes Anderson and the film The Grand Budapest Hotel.
Ryan was excited to use the color pink, which he had not used before he placed special orders for the color from around the world. Soon pink bricks came flooding in from – Poland, Germany and Italy as well as the US just to mention a few locations.
This was some sight to see!!! Don’t worry if you didn’t catch the display at the Grove, the masterpiece will be on display at the Architect and Design Museum in Los Angeles through August 31st.
A + D Los Angeles
CONTACT 6032 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90036
323.932.9393 | info@aplusd.org
HOURS
TUESDAY-FRIDAY: 11-5pm
SATURDAY-SUNDAY: 12-6pm
CLOSED MONDAYS
ADMISSION
General Adult: $7 (includes exhibition catalog)
Seniors: $5
Students, A+D Membersand Children under 12: Free
GROUP TOURS
A+D Museum is pleased to offer tours for both adult and school groups. To schedule your next A+D Museum group tour please email Heather Patton: hpatton@aplusd.org
Babies & Baby Dolls Not My Thing! Gods Plan Was Waiting In The Wings
by mitzimsa on June 17, 2014
I DON’T KNOW NOTHING ABOUT BIRTHING BABIES!!
I’ve never had that fire or desire to give birth to babies. Why as a child, for the short period of time that I played with dolls they were just that my doll the activity just did not hold my interest. My father and mother always made sure that I had every new baby doll that came on the market during the time that dolls were being made to reflect me (brown in color). My friends and relatives found so much pleasure with bathing, changing and combing hair of their dolls. While I found it more gratifying to sneak into my mother’s face powder, lip stick and perfume.
As time passed the desire to style clothing, coordinate nail color and seek out the cutest shoes and bags consumed my free time. The request for and receiving fashion magazines domestic and international was the passion that my father found to be so strong, he felt subscriptions were in order. I would wait with bated breath monthly to see what the latest craze was so that I could head to the mall to purchase what would keep me at the height of fashion.
Unlike today when getting mani/pedi’s is just something that you do this little black girl wore french tips and half moons and was the topic of discussion of the ritzy white ladies when my mother lead me into the salon for my appointment. The magazines guided me to seek out these beauty treatments along with visits to the dermatologist for what I referred to as preventive maintenance, which always made the doctor chuckle.
While class mates were more interested in getting to the basketball, football games and the big dance after the games on Friday night. I was more concerned with what I would wear to these events. I even took up tennis just to put on those cute little skirts with matching everything. I’m not sure I would have been a member of the drill team if it wasn’t for the short blue dress, white boots with tassels and pom poms!! I became known to teachers as the trend setter “If Mitzi does it today… tomorrow it will be the new fashion trend, just take a look down the hall” This comment always brought my parents to tears with laughter all the while beaming with pride.
BABY, I’M LAUGHING ALL THE WAY!!
Funny thing while living my life childless and fancy free, riding around in a two -seater just enough room for my purse and me. I started dating a father of 4 that in turn produced 8. So Now I find myself having play dates and interjecting the magic of childhood into many little lives . There’s one thing I feel compelled to say… I’m way past child bearing and I don’t regret my decision at all. My life is very full and I guess only God knows what he has in store for us as we travel down life’s road. I’m a teacher, mentor, mother figure and friend to many children that I didn’t give birth to guess that was God’s plan for me in the end.
In summation of it all, I’ll leave you with a phrase that I’ve always said…”When baby needs new shoes make them cute and a size 10, I want to dance until the party ends!”
This post was inspired by an artical I read on CNN: Check your ‘cat-lady’ preconceptions about childless women by Kelly Wallace
Empowering Compton California Youth
by mitzimsa on June 10, 2014
Summer Leadership Experience for Compton California Youth
Compton’s Mayor Aja Brown has launched summer program designed to prepare Compton’s youth to succeed in college and in the workplace.
Applications were available at all the high schools in the City of Compton California and requiared the students to submit GPA as well as a personal statement. The Application and recruitment process was handled by each individual high school and reviewed by the Mayor’s Office for acceptance.
The six week experience will be offered to 100 Compton California high school students. Two days a week the youth will take financial literacy, leadership and career planning courses on the Compton College Campus. The clinics will be hosted by various partners of the summer experience which include Wells Fargo, Operation Hope and a host of local and regional non-profits. There will also be one-on-one mentorship, guidance counseling and assistance in creating a 5 year action plan to achieve set goals.
Compton California Empowers Youth Through Education and Leadership
Compton California City Marker
This new to the city youth leadership program will also offer work experience through interning with local business and or organizations. Two days a week the business/organizations will offer hands on work experience as an introduction to the workforce and the participants will receive a stipend.
Kudos to Aja Brown Mayor of Compton California!
Micah Ali Democrat California State Assembly District 64
by mitzimsa on June 2, 2014
Show you’re commitment to the City of Compton and the 64th District of California
Vote Micah Ali Democrat For Assembly – June 3rd Primary Election!
Micah Ali is Compton, born, reared and a product of the local school system. Micah is currently president of the Compton Unified School Board. He was first elected to the governing board in 2007 and has spent the last six years improving Compton neighborhoods through education. He is committed to fighting for our children. Micah has made a vow to make sure our children receive a quality education. Due to Micah’s efforts we have witnessed improvement in Compton Unified’s graduation rate which increased by 2.8 %, a reported statistic from the 2011-2012 graduating class.
He is known for his work on improving the public schools, creating jobs in the community and supports policies that will attract businesses to the city, paying a livable wage to all as well as equal pay for women. Micah has shown his credibility, commitment and has distinguished himself as it relates to what he has done as president of the Compton Unified School District and the community.
If elected, Micah would support legislation to expand access to preschool, fund school-based health centers and seek a modification of corrections policy to require offenders to enroll in vocational education programs at adult schools upon being released from prison.
The primary election is Tuesday, June 3rd. The two candidates who finish in first and second place in the vote count will advance to the general election in November.
The winning candidate will succeed Democrat Isadore Hall, who is termed out of office.
Learn more and follow Micah Ali on social media:
micah4assembly.com facebook.com/micahali twitter.com/mrmicahali
For more details on the primary election and election day results see Around The Capitol
Did You Know The Cinderella Story Has Changed?
by mitzimsa on May 22, 2014
Revision of the Cinderella Story!
Ladies,remember when you envisioned what your husband, would look like? That fairy tale in your head that usually happens somewhere between 18 and 25 years of age? Even though this is probably the second time you revised the tale considering that the outlook is much different from when you were let’s say 10 years old. Well if you’re in your 30’s and beyond and still on the quest of finding the right man for you….know that it’s time to revise the Cinderella Story!
I’m not saying that what’s on your list can’t be found but, the chances get slimmer as you get older. Trust, that second list has way to many wants with no consideration of the gives that must be considered. Let’s face it men have a list as well and it’s not just looks and .…. (fill in the blank) anymore! Men seem to be waiting longer to marry and robbing the cradle (oops, did I say that!) when they do.
Clearing throat…Honey it’s no longer the days of only his money and positions being up to par for you. He has a vision of the end game of life as well. It’s diffidently time to get real and consider a revision that’s based on these days and times. Men are no longer hanging around to step to the counter and pay for your wants and carry them to the car, their also looking for their wants to be considered in the equation…talking equally yoked.
Cinderella says, “Thank you fairy godmother”
Whatever your motivation for marriage is love, money, status or companionship don’t be afraid to change the cover of the book. Go ahead live in the moment and rewrite the Cinderella Story think it through and make sure you can live with the revision because you’re the one that must live with the choices and whatever comes along with it.
This I know for sure!
Toodles!
Sandals Resorts Luxury Vacations: A Promise to You & the Caribbean…
by mitzimsa on May 19, 2014
SANDALS RESORTS AND BEACHES
Recently I spent the afternoon dining at The London West Hollywood with members of the Sandals Resorts Travel Media Lunch Tour. There was a brief cocktail reception where I mixed and mingled with brand executives.
Once seated I knew I was among the companies lively bunch! During the three course plated meal we dined on a lovely deconstructed salad, perfectly poached salmon with baby truffle potatoes. Finishing with Valrhona Chocolate Fondant with Brown Butter Caramel Vanilla Ice Cream, coffee and Mr. Adam Stewart CEO of Sandals Resorts & Beaches. Adam, spoke of the past, present and future of the family owned business its 15 Caribbean Resorts and the newest Sandals Resorts Unveilings. I could not have ask for a better introduction to Sandals Resorts Luxury All Inclusive Vacations, Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Foundation.
“I do” Sandals WeddingMoons!
Marsha Ann Brown, spoke passionately about all the possibilities when planning a Sandals Resorts destination wedding, “we don’t discuss budget we focus on bringing your vision and dreams to life.” I see why she’s the Director of Romance, when Marsha Ann speaks it makes you think “I Do WeddingMoons!”
Vacation And Enrich Your Soul In The Caribbean!
I have a huge interest in giving back and was intrigued by the brands commitment to the Caribbean. I had to know more about the Sandals foundation after the brief over view by Adam. Once again it was confirmed, I was at the right table David Roper; Director of Industry Relations a 29 year veteran was seated to my left. David, was able to give more insight to the programs of the foundation and how the brand commits to Education, Environment and Community of the Caribbean.
With Brand Partners and Volunteers the Sandals Foundation has kept their commitment for three decades. We can become part of the promise while vacationing or become a Voluntourists by packing up to 5 lbs (duty free) of School Supplies, Medical Supplies or Scoccer Balls in your suit case to donate upon arrival and become the newest member of Pack for a Purpose!
Little Sista, As You Graduate An Encouraging Word For You!
by mitzimsa on June 16, 2014
The commencement speech has been given, the hat has been thrown let the world hear you roar!
These words are for all the Little Sista’s of the world…
Your nationality doesn’t matter nor the color of your skin, if your hair is short or long; if you’re full and curvy or string bean thin. Your eyes may be light or of a darker hue it really doesn’t matter eyes are the window to your soul and give us the pure view of you.
Little Sista, you may come from nothing, you may have it all or fall somewhere in between. It’s your character and staying fascinated with what the world has to offer that will bring your greatest wealth.
Rolling around in a pricey car or on the bus, just remember both will get you where you need to go. See, it don’t matter if you live in the suburbs or in the hood just remain thankful your living. Every new day bring the oppertunity for change.
Little, Sista, you may study at a major university or community college either one will do. It’s that paper you receive in the end that’s going to unlock the doors for you. Always love yourself the most, set you goals high and know that your confidence is one of your greatest possessions.
Just know Little Sista, if you’re working for a major corporation or at the local burger stand both can unlock opportunity that will advance you in your plan. Realize you have a mind of your own and your sprit belongs to you seek to find the positive in all situations it will look good on you!
It makes me no never mind if you carry a designer bag or rock a knock off, if the soles on your shoes have red bottoms or red tags. Little Sista, fine treads on your back are nice but hand me down’s can be just as fine as long as you stay loyal to the true you, fashion is a state of mind.
Little Sista, do the world a favor remember always be true to you, stay beautiful, intelligent and strong there’s nothing you can’t conquer with that attitude. Never stop or give up on your dream, hold it close and keep it as your own. No one can dream your dream it’s unique like you go forth, carry on!
I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life’s a bitch. You’ve got to go out and kick ass! ~ Dr. Maya Angelou