Los Angeles

I am usually not a fan of L.A., but I was lucky enough to have a great weekend in Southern California with amazing friends. I'm a Northern California native and we're some what of a different breed than our Southern neighbors. Maybe it's our political demographics or even the fact that LA's smog sends me into incessant sneezing fits. I didn't get to see nearly all the people I wanted to, but it's hard to do that in a three day weekend. My friends showed me what I love about L.A., the culture, the food, & real variety. Chinese, Vietnamese, Nicaraguan, Mexican, American style brunches, cupcakes, Greek dancing, wine tasting, free concerts in the park, Santa Monica pier, Spicy Wonton Soup; quite possibly one of the best dishes I've ever had ... This is what I truly love about Los Angeles and it seems even the superficiality of this plastic city dissolves when you are surrounded with such good friends. I definitely owe much of this to my hosts; I'm blessed to have friends that know they can actually make a difference and do just that every day. On my flights back home, I was overwhelmed by the joy I felt because I know these individuals are doing what's important in life. It's nice to share those same hopes and dreams with people who fight for change on the ground every day. So, L.A. gets a big SALUD and my friends an even bigger Cheers!