fieldtrip: boating in marina del rey

For whatever we lose (like a you or a me)/

it’s always ourselves we find in the sea

-E.E. Cummings

The wisdom of the waves mingled with the smell of salty sea spray clear out tangled thoughts and make your worries melt away. But without the funds to own a vessel, land-bound seems the only way to be. If you're in Los Angeles, here is an affordable idea to navigate out of the harbor and into the ocean blue...

the secret stairs of beachwood canyon

If you're ever looking for some great urban hiking, look no further than the secret staircases of the Hollywoodland hills. It's significantly less crowded than tourist overrun Hollywood sign hike and nestled amongst the glamorous hillside mansions making it the perfect spot to get a bun burning workout and a beautiful view of L.A. It's a real hidden gem...

¡viva el cinco de mayo!

Happy cinco de Mayo y'all!

Funnily enough Los Angeles and San Antonio, the two cities I've lived in most extensively during my 20 years of life, have been extremely influenced by Mexican-American culture. I've seriously been listening to Tejano and Mariachi music all. day. long. which is stuff my dad, yes my Japanese-American doctor dad, made us listen to a lot when we moved to Texas. (Think Linda Ronstadt: Canciones de mi Padre.) Good stuff.

Here is a mariachi tune I can't get out of my head. It seriously makes me want to head down to Olvera Street and fiesta! If you get a chance to go to Olvera street it is truly an authentic Mexican-Angeleno experience.

xo from catie

a test of true love

Did you just laugh out loud too? That is truly the ultimate expression of love and commitment! You can by this awesome card from pences Etsy shop.

xo from catie

p.s. It seems like today is brought to you with love from the Los Angeles department of transportation.

{ photo by pences design studio }

the love train

So just a disclaimer, this is a date idea pretty exclusive to single people in Los Angeles. But if you fit that bill you're in luck!

The Los Angeles Metro is hosting speed dating on the red line for Valentine's day. Say what?! The concept sounds so crazy it just might work. Plus it would certainly make for a great "how we met" story. Unfortunately it's just for two hours during lunch, so I can't make it. Bummer. However if you manage to go, I'd love to hear about your experince!

Check out the details here to take a ride on the love train.

xo from catie

{ photo by Luz Lazo }