Last night was New Year's Eve, and like most people my age, I stayed in and played games with a few friends. Then I fell asleep around 12:30. Wild times in Brooklyn, indeed.
Actually, though, the night was completely and utterly fantastic. I had a very brief tinge of regret regarding not pursing any wild plans (like the hot tub party I hear went down at Roberta's in Bushwick), but this passed quickly and immediately upon being presented with a platter of Nora's bacon and brown sugar wrapped cheese stuffed jalapeno peppers. Take a moment to read that again...OK. They were otherworldly, ethereal, miraculous. I'm not sure I knew what happiness was until eating 15 or so of these delights. And then Nora produced a crock pot simmering with homemade pulled pork. Glory be!
The real takeaway, however, involved a game called Apples to Apples. I'd never heard of it, and confess to being rather leery at first. It didn't sound like much fun at first glance. Oh, how I was wrong.
It occurs to me much too late that the brilliance and majesty of Apples to Apples may be impossible to actually describe. This could very well be a classic case of you really had to be there. Suffice to say that Apples to Apples affords a phenomenal glance into the human psyche, and given the right players and mindset, provides a glimpse into the human brain that makes a Rorschach test look like an inkblot. So to speak.
Damn, I'm really not explaining this well...let me try this: in Apples to Apples, a card is placed down on the table. This card contains a single word or concept: "Stylish", "Shiny", "Sexy", etc. The players then look at their 7 cards in hand, and select a card which best exemplifies the concept card. For example, you might play "Cindy Crawford" for "Sexy." Then the judge picks the best match. And that's it.
Sounds boring, right? But it is PHENOMENAL. And here's why: because every so often someone will play a card so exceptionally, fantasmagorically brilliant, a card just so indisputably "right" that even if you're in competition (and thus want that card to lose), you've just gotta give props. It's like working on some crappy watercolor of the sunset and then Van Gogh sets up an easel right next to you. Know what I mean?
And so without further ado, my favorite memory of the game: the concept card is "Spunky". Players play their cards. Cards are overturned one by one. Most are commonplace, unimaginative, rather basic interpretations of "spunky" (including my own). And then the last card is turned:
"Anne Frank"
I admit there was half a second when my first reaction was to scoff. "Anne Frank? What the hell is that?" And then it hit me, the unadulterated brilliance of playing "Anne Frank" for "Spunky." It was like an advanced alien life form had entered the game, seeing angles my bourbon-drenched human brain could barely contemplate.
Anne Frank is downright fucking spunky. Holy shit. I honestly can't think of anything spunkier.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Current Song Obsessions
So I spend an inordinate amount of time at the computer, much of it staring into space or at the same 6 websites over and over again (NY Times, ESPN, Phillies, Netflix, Facebook, Hammer 2 Nail). I tend to get caught in these endless loops of limited attention spans. Or something. And so it goes with music, too. I find myself listening to the same handful of songs over and over and over...until finally something breaks the cycle and a new one begins.
Just a quick list of the current song cycle looping endlessly on my computer:
Band of Horses -- The Funeral
Built to Spill -- Car
Michael Nyman -- Jack
Spiritualized -- Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space
ELO -- Telephone Line
I suppose this all says something about my mood, but damn if I know what.
Just a quick list of the current song cycle looping endlessly on my computer:
Band of Horses -- The Funeral
Built to Spill -- Car
Michael Nyman -- Jack
Spiritualized -- Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space
ELO -- Telephone Line
I suppose this all says something about my mood, but damn if I know what.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
There's No Avoiding It: Damn, I'm Old
OK, so I guess I'm blogging again. I don't know how this happened. I have so much I should be writing right now. I guess it's come to the point where blogging feels like a break from writing. Does that make sense? At any rate, it's either this or exercise or some shit.
Alright, this isn't so compelling, but I feel like I need to ease my way back into the blogosphere with a nice simple post. Did I actually just type the word "blogosphere." Why, yes. Yes, I did. See: I'm rusty. But let's hope this is like riding a bike. Not that I'm very good at riding a bike, either. But you know what I mean.
Here goes. Without further ado, Thirty Is The New Sixty breathes again!
I just wanted to write a few notes about the title of the blog itself, and how mortified I am that what was once an "I'm Old" joke (inspired by me turning 30) now makes me wistful for a time when I could joke about turning 30. Holy crap, I'm 35 next month. How did this happen? What now? Do I need to change the blog's name? Will I even be able to type or operate a computer at such an advanced age? Do I bother getting out of bed in the morning? Do I start reading AARP magazine? Should I join my parents in Florida for the winter? Should it bother me that I can barely keep a houseplant alive, much less care for a pet or (gulp) father a child? (Just typing the words "father a child" made me cringe and glance embarrassingly around the cafe to make sure noone is reading over my shoulder. I'm like 16 emotionally.) Should I switch from tennis to golf? Should I find religion? Should I talk more about my knees and back? Should I stop wearing jeans and sneakers every day? Should I buy a briefcase? Should I not buy a Vespa on Craigslist? Do I stop obsessing over the Phillies and be thankful I got to see one World Championship in my lifetime? Should I visit the doctor more than once every few years? Is that weird mole on my shoulder something I should be concerned about? Should I start talking about the 90s like my parents talk about the 60s? Should I floss more? Should I switch to lighter beer? Not drink at all? Do sit ups? Eat spinach? Get to bed at a decent hour?
It's too much to contemplate.
Instead, two recent observations that made me feel old, one mortifying, the other amusing (at least to me):
1. Mortifying: I was watching the movie 17 Again with some friends recently. Not a bad little movie, actually. That Zac Effron's really got something. ANYWAY, at one point in the movie, 17-year-old Zac is discussing how in ten years from now he'll be old and it'll be too late, and so he should follow his dreams right now, being young and vibrant and relevant. And I realize: holy shit, Zac's vision of old, 27, is EIGHT YEARS YOUNGER THAN I AM NOW.
2. Amusing: So I'm at the shrink, and he's going on about how I should press the issue on certain things, and not just go with the flow, etc. So I say, "Yeah, I don't wanna rock the boat." He goes, "But aren't you just prolonging the inevitable?" To which I wittily reply, "What is life, if not prolonging the inevitable?" The shrink snorted into his herbal tea at that, and we both had a good chuckle. But seriously, this is the thinking of an old person.
Alright, this isn't so compelling, but I feel like I need to ease my way back into the blogosphere with a nice simple post. Did I actually just type the word "blogosphere." Why, yes. Yes, I did. See: I'm rusty. But let's hope this is like riding a bike. Not that I'm very good at riding a bike, either. But you know what I mean.
Here goes. Without further ado, Thirty Is The New Sixty breathes again!
I just wanted to write a few notes about the title of the blog itself, and how mortified I am that what was once an "I'm Old" joke (inspired by me turning 30) now makes me wistful for a time when I could joke about turning 30. Holy crap, I'm 35 next month. How did this happen? What now? Do I need to change the blog's name? Will I even be able to type or operate a computer at such an advanced age? Do I bother getting out of bed in the morning? Do I start reading AARP magazine? Should I join my parents in Florida for the winter? Should it bother me that I can barely keep a houseplant alive, much less care for a pet or (gulp) father a child? (Just typing the words "father a child" made me cringe and glance embarrassingly around the cafe to make sure noone is reading over my shoulder. I'm like 16 emotionally.) Should I switch from tennis to golf? Should I find religion? Should I talk more about my knees and back? Should I stop wearing jeans and sneakers every day? Should I buy a briefcase? Should I not buy a Vespa on Craigslist? Do I stop obsessing over the Phillies and be thankful I got to see one World Championship in my lifetime? Should I visit the doctor more than once every few years? Is that weird mole on my shoulder something I should be concerned about? Should I start talking about the 90s like my parents talk about the 60s? Should I floss more? Should I switch to lighter beer? Not drink at all? Do sit ups? Eat spinach? Get to bed at a decent hour?
It's too much to contemplate.
Instead, two recent observations that made me feel old, one mortifying, the other amusing (at least to me):
1. Mortifying: I was watching the movie 17 Again with some friends recently. Not a bad little movie, actually. That Zac Effron's really got something. ANYWAY, at one point in the movie, 17-year-old Zac is discussing how in ten years from now he'll be old and it'll be too late, and so he should follow his dreams right now, being young and vibrant and relevant. And I realize: holy shit, Zac's vision of old, 27, is EIGHT YEARS YOUNGER THAN I AM NOW.
2. Amusing: So I'm at the shrink, and he's going on about how I should press the issue on certain things, and not just go with the flow, etc. So I say, "Yeah, I don't wanna rock the boat." He goes, "But aren't you just prolonging the inevitable?" To which I wittily reply, "What is life, if not prolonging the inevitable?" The shrink snorted into his herbal tea at that, and we both had a good chuckle. But seriously, this is the thinking of an old person.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Friday, October 24, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 12
Today was the day I had to return the rental car, kind of sticking me in one locale for the day. I took Abbey to lunch for accompanying me on my errand. We went to Home again, where I got to gawk at Adrian Grenier and tuck into this delightful curry chicken salad sandwich. Yum.
I then spent the day swooning in the heat like Blanche du Bois until it was finally time for happy hour at El Conquistador! This is my favorite happy hour in all of LA. You order yourself a lovely margarita like this one:
Not only is the margarita delicious (and strong!), but it comes with a delightful basket of chips and salsa. Here, Bill takes a bite:
But that is only the beginning, for at El Conquistador, your happy hour margarita also comes with a full platter of Mexican treats! Seriously, this is free. Unbelievable.
My crappy camera phone is not doing justice to this huge plate of melted cheese-based items. Yeah yeah.
Then I settled in for a terrible Phillies performance. This homemade bowl of popcorn was unfortunately the highlight of the second game of the World Series.
I then spent the day swooning in the heat like Blanche du Bois until it was finally time for happy hour at El Conquistador! This is my favorite happy hour in all of LA. You order yourself a lovely margarita like this one:
Not only is the margarita delicious (and strong!), but it comes with a delightful basket of chips and salsa. Here, Bill takes a bite:
But that is only the beginning, for at El Conquistador, your happy hour margarita also comes with a full platter of Mexican treats! Seriously, this is free. Unbelievable.
My crappy camera phone is not doing justice to this huge plate of melted cheese-based items. Yeah yeah.
Then I settled in for a terrible Phillies performance. This homemade bowl of popcorn was unfortunately the highlight of the second game of the World Series.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 11
[Frustrated note: I have no idea why so many of these shots are out of focus. I'm using the flash, I've got my settings down, I'm doing that thing where you half press the button and the camera focuses...it's very, very frustrating. And it's practically impossible to tell they are out of focus until I upload. On the little camera screen, they appear to look fine. Argh. Sorry.]
Today began w/ yet another trip to Cafe Tropical for mango shake and pastry. It was good, but not quite up to Tropical's usual standards. Or maybe my lack of sleep is beginning to affect my taste buds. Anyhow, no photo, as it looked the same as those previous.
We'd planned on a return to Home for lunch, but it was an absolute scorcher outside. Switched things up at the last minute and hit a cool retro diner type place called Fred 62. I was dead set on eating something healthy. But then I opened the menu and this chorizzo laden breakfast burrito appeared before my eyes like the burning bush.
It's such a tragedy that this isn't in focus. Oh man that burrito was like a work of art. You don't know what it's like living someplace where the food is awful (unless you're Amy). I practically wept into my plate while eating this. I think I now understand religion.
And then I was stuffed beyond description. But of course we headed over to Von's and stocked up on food and tequila for the World Series. Man, it was totally surreal to be rooting for the Phillies in the World Series. And even more surreal when Bill whipped up a Philadelphia-worthy Philly cheesesteak.
Wow. This thing was outrageously good. Better than Pat's. Totally on part with Tony Luke's. The real deal, cooked before my very eyes!
GO PHILS!!!!!
Today began w/ yet another trip to Cafe Tropical for mango shake and pastry. It was good, but not quite up to Tropical's usual standards. Or maybe my lack of sleep is beginning to affect my taste buds. Anyhow, no photo, as it looked the same as those previous.
We'd planned on a return to Home for lunch, but it was an absolute scorcher outside. Switched things up at the last minute and hit a cool retro diner type place called Fred 62. I was dead set on eating something healthy. But then I opened the menu and this chorizzo laden breakfast burrito appeared before my eyes like the burning bush.
It's such a tragedy that this isn't in focus. Oh man that burrito was like a work of art. You don't know what it's like living someplace where the food is awful (unless you're Amy). I practically wept into my plate while eating this. I think I now understand religion.
And then I was stuffed beyond description. But of course we headed over to Von's and stocked up on food and tequila for the World Series. Man, it was totally surreal to be rooting for the Phillies in the World Series. And even more surreal when Bill whipped up a Philadelphia-worthy Philly cheesesteak.
Wow. This thing was outrageously good. Better than Pat's. Totally on part with Tony Luke's. The real deal, cooked before my very eyes!
GO PHILS!!!!!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 10
I still wasn't back on my game yet today. Spent the morning and early afternoon at Adam's, hanging out with Mr. President (dog) and enjoying a little Josh time. Didn't get anything to eat, or even coffee.
Around midday I drove back to west Hollywood, or whatever Pat's neighborhood is called. I met up with Miriam for lunch, and she took me to a little place called The Chicken Lady. Of course, this being LA, the Chicken Lady was described as "doing the catering on Two and a Half Men." Good enough for me!
We walked over to the restaurant, and I still wasn't really feeling hungry, or like I had much of an appetite. And I didn't know what to expect from the Chicken Lady. The place itself was pretty nondescript (besides headshots on the wall of every original 90210 cast member). We took a little table by the window, where I proceeded to be absolutely stunned by the quality of our lunch. Only the best for Charlie Sheen, apparently.
I stupidly forgot my camera, so Miriam snapped this with her phone:
This doesn't even begin to do justice to how amazing that plate of food was. Seriously, this was one of the most delicious things I've ever put in my mouth. That there is a Chicken Caesar sandwich with a side of mac n' cheese. The sandwich bore no relation to the Caesar salad...and as you may note, the entire thing was covered in melted cheese. It was so soft, so gooey, like crawling back into a melted cheese filled womb. It was a pure sensory experience. I can't even describe it. I've never experienced anything quite like it. Also, this may have been the best mac n' cheese I've ever eaten. For real.
As if that weren't enough, the Chicken Lady gave us each a complimentary slice of outrageously delicious chocolate cake (not pictured). The cake was made out of gnash or some similarly decadent ingredient. It was ice cold, and velvety, and just delicious. I told the Chicken Lady our lunch was so good I needed to move to LA immediately.
Unfortunately, I kind of crashed soon after. I'm getting really, really tired. Starting work at 7 each morning, coupled w/ crappy nights' sleep on various couches is taking a bit of a toll. Too bad, cause I hate feeling so drained.
At night, I drove over to Peggy's to check out her new house, which is unbelievably amazing. Good job, Peg!
She cooked up some stir fry for dinner, then we caught up, rapped about LA, writing, movies, etc. Too bad I was too braindead exhausted to do much other than nod at her like the village idiot. Thankfully, Peggy held up her end of the conversation.
And her dinner tasted a lot better than my crappy photo would suggest.
Around midday I drove back to west Hollywood, or whatever Pat's neighborhood is called. I met up with Miriam for lunch, and she took me to a little place called The Chicken Lady. Of course, this being LA, the Chicken Lady was described as "doing the catering on Two and a Half Men." Good enough for me!
We walked over to the restaurant, and I still wasn't really feeling hungry, or like I had much of an appetite. And I didn't know what to expect from the Chicken Lady. The place itself was pretty nondescript (besides headshots on the wall of every original 90210 cast member). We took a little table by the window, where I proceeded to be absolutely stunned by the quality of our lunch. Only the best for Charlie Sheen, apparently.
I stupidly forgot my camera, so Miriam snapped this with her phone:
This doesn't even begin to do justice to how amazing that plate of food was. Seriously, this was one of the most delicious things I've ever put in my mouth. That there is a Chicken Caesar sandwich with a side of mac n' cheese. The sandwich bore no relation to the Caesar salad...and as you may note, the entire thing was covered in melted cheese. It was so soft, so gooey, like crawling back into a melted cheese filled womb. It was a pure sensory experience. I can't even describe it. I've never experienced anything quite like it. Also, this may have been the best mac n' cheese I've ever eaten. For real.
As if that weren't enough, the Chicken Lady gave us each a complimentary slice of outrageously delicious chocolate cake (not pictured). The cake was made out of gnash or some similarly decadent ingredient. It was ice cold, and velvety, and just delicious. I told the Chicken Lady our lunch was so good I needed to move to LA immediately.
Unfortunately, I kind of crashed soon after. I'm getting really, really tired. Starting work at 7 each morning, coupled w/ crappy nights' sleep on various couches is taking a bit of a toll. Too bad, cause I hate feeling so drained.
At night, I drove over to Peggy's to check out her new house, which is unbelievably amazing. Good job, Peg!
She cooked up some stir fry for dinner, then we caught up, rapped about LA, writing, movies, etc. Too bad I was too braindead exhausted to do much other than nod at her like the village idiot. Thankfully, Peggy held up her end of the conversation.
And her dinner tasted a lot better than my crappy photo would suggest.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 9
Today was the day all this eating finally caught up to me. Felt sorta ill, and not having anywhere to just go an relax alone probably heightened the sensation somewhat. I did, luckily, rent another car. So at least I was free to cruise around. Just couldn't figure out where to go. Alas.
Anyway, for lunch I visited a highly regarded spot in Silverlake (I think) called Home. I sat outside right next to a large koi pond, and got to watch the fish swim about while I read and took in the nice weather. As for food, I ordered an outstanding chicken salad sandwich on toasted sourdough. Really, really tasty.
Then I hopped in the car and drove out to Venice. I had about 4 hours to kill, and so wandered about for a while (did you know Venice has canals, like the real Venice? Me neither. But it does, and they are downright charming!), then plopped down on the beach to read. The sun was setting and I had my back up against a palm tree. It was like being in a Corona commercial. No food, though, so no pictures.
Met up with Holly and Thomas after killing one final hour watching Monday Night Football and nursing a Dos Equis. We rode beach cruisers over to a Mexican cantina. I still had my stomach on my mind, so just played it safe and bland w/ chicken fingers:
Of course, I was mocked mercilessly for this preposterous order. Here's a shot of Holly eating the normal people food:
After, we met Adam at Holly's favorite dive bar, which truly was a dive in every sense of the word. Surprisingly (given the surroundings), Holly and Thomas each claimed this place made a real tasty burger. When Adam suggested splitting one, despite stomach issues and not being remotely hungry, I couldn't resist. Good call. This was one of the best cheeseburgers I have ever eaten in my life. No kidding.
Anyway, for lunch I visited a highly regarded spot in Silverlake (I think) called Home. I sat outside right next to a large koi pond, and got to watch the fish swim about while I read and took in the nice weather. As for food, I ordered an outstanding chicken salad sandwich on toasted sourdough. Really, really tasty.
Then I hopped in the car and drove out to Venice. I had about 4 hours to kill, and so wandered about for a while (did you know Venice has canals, like the real Venice? Me neither. But it does, and they are downright charming!), then plopped down on the beach to read. The sun was setting and I had my back up against a palm tree. It was like being in a Corona commercial. No food, though, so no pictures.
Met up with Holly and Thomas after killing one final hour watching Monday Night Football and nursing a Dos Equis. We rode beach cruisers over to a Mexican cantina. I still had my stomach on my mind, so just played it safe and bland w/ chicken fingers:
Of course, I was mocked mercilessly for this preposterous order. Here's a shot of Holly eating the normal people food:
After, we met Adam at Holly's favorite dive bar, which truly was a dive in every sense of the word. Surprisingly (given the surroundings), Holly and Thomas each claimed this place made a real tasty burger. When Adam suggested splitting one, despite stomach issues and not being remotely hungry, I couldn't resist. Good call. This was one of the best cheeseburgers I have ever eaten in my life. No kidding.
Monday, October 20, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 8
The cats woke me up bright and early, though I fought the power and proceeded to lie on the couch for a few hours. Then Bill whipped up a nice homemade breakfast. Great way to start the day.
I once again did the unthinkable and walked somewhere in LA. Found a great little cafe, saw a movie, then was feeling rather starved. Nothing a $6 combo fish and shrimp platter couldn't solve. This was amazing!
My feeling is that the worth of a city lies in its cheap eats. Expensive cuisine is always good, but it's at the low end that a city's character, passions, and flavors can really be found. Where people are passionate about living, the cheap eats are good.
At night, we visited George and Samantha for some pizza and some Mad Men. Here, George goes for the first slice:
I once again did the unthinkable and walked somewhere in LA. Found a great little cafe, saw a movie, then was feeling rather starved. Nothing a $6 combo fish and shrimp platter couldn't solve. This was amazing!
My feeling is that the worth of a city lies in its cheap eats. Expensive cuisine is always good, but it's at the low end that a city's character, passions, and flavors can really be found. Where people are passionate about living, the cheap eats are good.
At night, we visited George and Samantha for some pizza and some Mad Men. Here, George goes for the first slice:
Sunday, October 19, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 7
The upside of being on the West coast with an East coast job? Your day ends at 3pm. The downside? It starts at 7am. Sheesh! Well, today was Saturday and I finally got to catch up on a little sleep. Then Pat, Miriam and I walked (yes, walked) to a cool breakfast spot called Tart. We were treated to so many delicious items that I almost forgot to snap a photo! Fortunately, the coffee kicked in while half of my twisted BLT remained (this was a BLT w/ an egg added). Check it out:
Unfortunately, I failed to capture the world-class biscuits we had as our first course. Man, those biscuits were gooooooood!
One of the things that's been kind of weird for me in DC is the complete lack of a Jewish presence there. Not that I'm religious, but I've really grown used to Judaism being represented as a culture. Now that I live in the South, well, obviously there are no Jews. And the Jews that do exist have chosen to assimilate. There are Jews in DC, to be sure, but there is absolutely no Jewish identity.
The point, you ask? Well, perhaps at the very top of my LA To Do list was visiting Canter's deli. It's a tough call for me between Canter's and the Second Avenue Deli in NYC, but I actually think I might prefer Canter's. At any rate, the sight of a really vibrant, Jewish inflected scene was really cool to behold once again. Sorta felt like home. Unfortunately, I couldn't bring myself to use my flash bulb, so the pics are blurry....but goddamn this was some superb cuisine! Matzoh ball soup, corned beef on rye, pickles, and a cream soda:
Ah, the Jews. I almost forgot about them!
Unfortunately, I failed to capture the world-class biscuits we had as our first course. Man, those biscuits were gooooooood!
One of the things that's been kind of weird for me in DC is the complete lack of a Jewish presence there. Not that I'm religious, but I've really grown used to Judaism being represented as a culture. Now that I live in the South, well, obviously there are no Jews. And the Jews that do exist have chosen to assimilate. There are Jews in DC, to be sure, but there is absolutely no Jewish identity.
The point, you ask? Well, perhaps at the very top of my LA To Do list was visiting Canter's deli. It's a tough call for me between Canter's and the Second Avenue Deli in NYC, but I actually think I might prefer Canter's. At any rate, the sight of a really vibrant, Jewish inflected scene was really cool to behold once again. Sorta felt like home. Unfortunately, I couldn't bring myself to use my flash bulb, so the pics are blurry....but goddamn this was some superb cuisine! Matzoh ball soup, corned beef on rye, pickles, and a cream soda:
Ah, the Jews. I almost forgot about them!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 6
I can't believe it's been two whole days without Cafe Tropical. Fortunately, I made it back for another round of mango shake, guava cheese pie, and coffee. Plus, I also discovered Tropical has free Wifi, and so I snagged a seat right under the air conditioner and had a high old time.
Directly after, Bill and I hit a great Thai place for lunch. Specials were $5.99 and everything was delish. Here's a shot of our egg roll appetizers:
And my delightful entree:
This stuff was awesome and filling. Unfortunately, we did not catch a set by the Thai Elvis impersonator who makes this place famous (there was a large metal statue of him in attendance, however).
Still full, I accompanied Pat to El Carmen, where 450 different types of tequila were in attendance, and where this outstanding fish taco made its way down my gullet.
The night continued out in Santa Monica, where we took in some music and some beer, saw Adam and his little dog, but alas didn't eat again.
Directly after, Bill and I hit a great Thai place for lunch. Specials were $5.99 and everything was delish. Here's a shot of our egg roll appetizers:
And my delightful entree:
This stuff was awesome and filling. Unfortunately, we did not catch a set by the Thai Elvis impersonator who makes this place famous (there was a large metal statue of him in attendance, however).
Still full, I accompanied Pat to El Carmen, where 450 different types of tequila were in attendance, and where this outstanding fish taco made its way down my gullet.
The night continued out in Santa Monica, where we took in some music and some beer, saw Adam and his little dog, but alas didn't eat again.
Friday, October 17, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 5
Today started off right, with a cruise over to Roscoe's for some fried chicken and waffles. Surely I don't need to describe how delicious this was:
Sheeeeeeeeeet. That was some good eating. Then the heat came in, making me feel sleepy and uninspired. Spent most of the day half-asleep on the couch.
Fortunately, we got it in gear and put together a little beach cookout. We arrived just in time to see the sun set.
Bill got the fire started...
...and it wasn't long till I had a couple of dogs out over the flames.
The dogs were phenomenal. Here the gang enjoys the cookout:
Glenn takes it to the next level with some marshmallows:
The finished product:
It was pretty great to spend the night at the beach. LA living is pretty sweet.
Later I put Petey inside the couch.
Sheeeeeeeeeet. That was some good eating. Then the heat came in, making me feel sleepy and uninspired. Spent most of the day half-asleep on the couch.
Fortunately, we got it in gear and put together a little beach cookout. We arrived just in time to see the sun set.
Bill got the fire started...
...and it wasn't long till I had a couple of dogs out over the flames.
The dogs were phenomenal. Here the gang enjoys the cookout:
Glenn takes it to the next level with some marshmallows:
The finished product:
It was pretty great to spend the night at the beach. LA living is pretty sweet.
Later I put Petey inside the couch.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 4
Woke up at Pat's house craving coffee and something sweet. We walked across the street to a really nice, Dean and Deluca-esque cafe, where I loaded up on coffee and a delicious strawberry muffin. Never even heard of a strawberry muffin before. It was goooood.
Spent the afternoon driving from one cafe to another, looking for free Wifi and a good place to work. Then, acting on a hot tip from Michelle, I had the pleasure of dining al fresco at Yuca's Tacos. This place was amazing. Needless to say, after devouring a carne asada and a carnitas taco, I had to go back up and order a shredded beef taco, as well. All were delicious. Simple, excellent food for cheap. I like being back in civilization.
Then of course I spent the evening cheering the Phils! Still having trouble getting my head around them being in the World Series. Wow. We celebrated by driving over to a highbrow fast food joint called The Oinkster that we read about online. It was somewhat overrated, but still tasty. Take a looksee at my pulled pork sandwich and fries. Apparently I should have used a flash.
Spent the afternoon driving from one cafe to another, looking for free Wifi and a good place to work. Then, acting on a hot tip from Michelle, I had the pleasure of dining al fresco at Yuca's Tacos. This place was amazing. Needless to say, after devouring a carne asada and a carnitas taco, I had to go back up and order a shredded beef taco, as well. All were delicious. Simple, excellent food for cheap. I like being back in civilization.
Then of course I spent the evening cheering the Phils! Still having trouble getting my head around them being in the World Series. Wow. We celebrated by driving over to a highbrow fast food joint called The Oinkster that we read about online. It was somewhat overrated, but still tasty. Take a looksee at my pulled pork sandwich and fries. Apparently I should have used a flash.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 3
I started out the day at Tropical, once again, though I skipped the guava cheese pie and just went straight up mango shake and coffee. Once again, delish!
I've really been haunted by a salad craving the last couple of days. Got a recommendation and drove out to Tender Greens in Culver City. It was a bit of a schlep, but check out my grilled chicken cobb salad! It was pretty amazing, and I wanted to eat everything on the menu.
This thing totally filled me up for the rest of the day, and shockingly it was the last thing I ate. No dinner, no late night munchies, no nothing. Very unlike me. Of course, happy hour was the exception. Got together with Bill and Abby at their favorite margarita joint. I went old school w/ a straight up margarita at first, but then succumbed to peer pressure and ordered a frozen strawberry version next. In a word: awesome.
Here we are, enjoying our cocktails.
The night ended at the old LA Forum. If you squint real hard, you might see Weezer in this photo.
I've really been haunted by a salad craving the last couple of days. Got a recommendation and drove out to Tender Greens in Culver City. It was a bit of a schlep, but check out my grilled chicken cobb salad! It was pretty amazing, and I wanted to eat everything on the menu.
This thing totally filled me up for the rest of the day, and shockingly it was the last thing I ate. No dinner, no late night munchies, no nothing. Very unlike me. Of course, happy hour was the exception. Got together with Bill and Abby at their favorite margarita joint. I went old school w/ a straight up margarita at first, but then succumbed to peer pressure and ordered a frozen strawberry version next. In a word: awesome.
Here we are, enjoying our cocktails.
The night ended at the old LA Forum. If you squint real hard, you might see Weezer in this photo.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
I Devour LA, Part 2
My first full day in LA starts with a bang. I have 2 favorite breakfasts, one on the East Coast (Middle Eastern eggs and coffee at Cafe Mogador, NYC) and one on the West. (Needless to say, when in DC I just make breakfast at home. No point going out.) I am completely obsessed with Cafe Tropical, and my first visit of the trip did not disappoint! Behold:
That there is a fresh mango shake, and a slice of guava cheese pie. Not shown: the best cup of coffee I've had in at least a year.
Here's a closer look at that guava cheese pie. Indescribably delicious.
Later I rented a car and spent the day getting lost in LA. It was fun to explore the city myself, as opposed to being schlepped around by friends as I usually do. I got a nice feel for the city, being out there alone.
Stopped off at a scenic overlook along Mulholland Drive. Here's the view:
All that driving got me hungry, so I swung by the Farmer's Market for a nice outdoor lunch. At the time, I thought I was going to the Phillies/Dodgers game, so figured I'd eat light. The tickets wound up falling through at the last minute, but this was still a pleasant lunch on the lighter side: turkey, cheese and tomato crepe. And it was totally gorgeous outside.
Got lazy and just ordered some takeout for dinner, to accompany the Phils.
More good eats to come...
That there is a fresh mango shake, and a slice of guava cheese pie. Not shown: the best cup of coffee I've had in at least a year.
Here's a closer look at that guava cheese pie. Indescribably delicious.
Later I rented a car and spent the day getting lost in LA. It was fun to explore the city myself, as opposed to being schlepped around by friends as I usually do. I got a nice feel for the city, being out there alone.
Stopped off at a scenic overlook along Mulholland Drive. Here's the view:
All that driving got me hungry, so I swung by the Farmer's Market for a nice outdoor lunch. At the time, I thought I was going to the Phillies/Dodgers game, so figured I'd eat light. The tickets wound up falling through at the last minute, but this was still a pleasant lunch on the lighter side: turkey, cheese and tomato crepe. And it was totally gorgeous outside.
Got lazy and just ordered some takeout for dinner, to accompany the Phils.
More good eats to come...
I Devour LA, Part 1
Twenty minutes after touching down in Long Beach, I found myself standing in line for what I hope to be the first of many Mexican delicacies. A dude out on the sidewalk was frying up what appeared to be intestine tacos...so my gringo friend and I decided to play it safe and order from the regular menu inside. One carnitas burrito with everything, coming right up!
Doesn't look like much, but it was loaded with yummy grilled pork, and amazing feta-like Mexican cheese. Though I do love my cheddar and sour cream, this was a nice authentic change of pace.
Here's Petey the cat attempting to take a sip of my Brisk. Petey has been all up in my grill piece for 2 days now. I am not cut out for cat ownership.
Doesn't look like much, but it was loaded with yummy grilled pork, and amazing feta-like Mexican cheese. Though I do love my cheddar and sour cream, this was a nice authentic change of pace.
Here's Petey the cat attempting to take a sip of my Brisk. Petey has been all up in my grill piece for 2 days now. I am not cut out for cat ownership.
Friday, August 8, 2008
A Poll For My 3 Readers
I knew there'd come a point where I'd regret not writing more often, cultivating a readership, etc.. And here it is. My last post inspired an interesting little mini-debate that I've still got on the brain. I'd really love to know what people think about this issue. So, my 3 readers, please comment!
Essentially, the question is this: is it wrong (or racist, or etc.) to make a generalization about a specific ethnic/racial/etc. group of people if the generalization isn't a negative one?
For example, if someone were to say, "The Jews are smart," am I supposed to be offended by this? (I'm not).
Or, if I were to say, "Girls are pretty." Is that bad/sexist?
In other words, does racism/etc. imply negativity. Or is it the act of generalization itself that we are supposed to avoid.
I admit I'm somewhat torn. Weigh in!
Essentially, the question is this: is it wrong (or racist, or etc.) to make a generalization about a specific ethnic/racial/etc. group of people if the generalization isn't a negative one?
For example, if someone were to say, "The Jews are smart," am I supposed to be offended by this? (I'm not).
Or, if I were to say, "Girls are pretty." Is that bad/sexist?
In other words, does racism/etc. imply negativity. Or is it the act of generalization itself that we are supposed to avoid.
I admit I'm somewhat torn. Weigh in!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Notes From My MRI
I celebrated the start of a wonderful new work week by having my head examined. Literally. In a seemingly never-ending quest to figure out why my ears have been ringing for the past 4 years, I subjected myself to an invigorating brain scan Monday afternoon. First, I couldn't have any coffee or food beforehand (unless I wanted to get up super early, at like 9am or some shit. No thanks.). Second, it was way out in Maryland someplace, requiring a schlep out across dreaded New York Avenue and beyond. And third, I wasn't sure if you are allowed to wear contacts to an MRI, so I donned glasses, which always makes me feel all weird and out of it for some reason.
Anyway, like a mole I appeared blinking into the bright lights of the MRI waiting room. And from there, let the observations begin!
1. [removed by PC Police]
2. I don't think the dude that guides you through an MRI procedure should be wearing high-top sneakers. Makes me nervous.
3. Me: "I wasn't sure if I could wear contacts or not." MRI dude: "Unless they're made of steel, you can." Touche.
4. When they ask if you want a blanket, say yes. It's freezing in that tube!
5. Did you know an MRI is so loud you have to wear earplugs? It's true. And as a regular wearer of earplugs, I was quite impressed by the selection. Asked the MRI dude where he got them and he looked at me like I was crazy.
6. If you can forget that you're basically lying in a coffin, an MRI can be quite relaxing! For the first ten seconds or so, I felt really claustrophobic, then got really really relaxed by repeating the following mantra: "people are at work right now. people are at work right now. people are at work right now." Ah, MRI. It's all relative.
7. In this day and age, can't they put Wifi up in the MRI tube somehow? You mean they're looking at my brain but can't figure out how to let me read about the Phillies at the same time? C'mon.
8. What if you're really fat? Can you fit in there?
9. I often read about baseball players having to go get an MRI. How does this work? Do they just dip their ankle (or whatever) into the machine? Is there a different MRI machine for non-head scans? Do they still have to go all the way in the tube to have a shoulder looked at? I need answers.
10. One of the most difficult questions I've ever attempted to answer is: "How did your MRI go?" Since they don't tell you anything when you're done (I guess the doctor will contact me at some point?), this basically amounts to "How did your sit in that chair go?" or "How did standing up go?" Um, it went pretty well, thanks. I lied on my back and waited for it to be over. That's about it. Ultimately kinda boring.
Anyway, like a mole I appeared blinking into the bright lights of the MRI waiting room. And from there, let the observations begin!
1. [removed by PC Police]
2. I don't think the dude that guides you through an MRI procedure should be wearing high-top sneakers. Makes me nervous.
3. Me: "I wasn't sure if I could wear contacts or not." MRI dude: "Unless they're made of steel, you can." Touche.
4. When they ask if you want a blanket, say yes. It's freezing in that tube!
5. Did you know an MRI is so loud you have to wear earplugs? It's true. And as a regular wearer of earplugs, I was quite impressed by the selection. Asked the MRI dude where he got them and he looked at me like I was crazy.
6. If you can forget that you're basically lying in a coffin, an MRI can be quite relaxing! For the first ten seconds or so, I felt really claustrophobic, then got really really relaxed by repeating the following mantra: "people are at work right now. people are at work right now. people are at work right now." Ah, MRI. It's all relative.
7. In this day and age, can't they put Wifi up in the MRI tube somehow? You mean they're looking at my brain but can't figure out how to let me read about the Phillies at the same time? C'mon.
8. What if you're really fat? Can you fit in there?
9. I often read about baseball players having to go get an MRI. How does this work? Do they just dip their ankle (or whatever) into the machine? Is there a different MRI machine for non-head scans? Do they still have to go all the way in the tube to have a shoulder looked at? I need answers.
10. One of the most difficult questions I've ever attempted to answer is: "How did your MRI go?" Since they don't tell you anything when you're done (I guess the doctor will contact me at some point?), this basically amounts to "How did your sit in that chair go?" or "How did standing up go?" Um, it went pretty well, thanks. I lied on my back and waited for it to be over. That's about it. Ultimately kinda boring.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Things I Almost Blogged About
I keep thinking about writing something, then find some reason not to (laziness). But I think just the fact that it occurs to me should count for something. Like, if I was really slacking off, I wouldn't even think about posting. Hmmm. Maybe that's flimsy. But at any rate, here are 10 posts I considered writing over the past 2 weeks before doing something else instead:
1. The All Star Trivia Team - I attended trivia night at an Irish pub (no, really). My teammates were a table full of seemingly intelligent 30 somethings. We got destroyed. In this post, I would have presented my roster for an archetypal All-Star Pub Trivia Team.
2. Special Topics In Calamity Physics - The worst book I've ever read/The straw that finally broke my subscription to Entertainment Weekly's back.
3. Wall-E - I am alway, always underwhelmed by Pixar and Pixar-esque movies (the Incredibles might be in my all-time overrated Top 20). Not this time.
4. Summer in DC - Or, I've been bored before, but not like this.
5. Time to Rock - My old friend Jim brought his electric guitar down for the weekend and we proceeded to rock out in my basement like a couple of 16-year-olds. Except for the back, neck and finger pain.
6. DC United - In which I attend my first-ever professional soccer game and come away absolutely fascinated. American hooliganism. Who knew? Nationalism is totally weird. I had no idea we did that here. Also, a bonus discussion in which I compare attending a sporting event at RFK Stadium to shopping at one of New Jersey's few remaining dirt malls.
7. There Goes the Neighborhood - In which my friend Mark and I become the only regular White players at an all-Black tennis complex.
8. One Man Brand - my short documentary is finally finished and the early reviews are good. Next up: festival applications.
9. The Stella Scooter - In which my lifelong obsession with Vespas takes a major hit as I stumble upon a Stella parked in the neighborhood. Will life ever be the same? Perhaps we will find out tomorrow as I visit the dealership!
10. Mosquito Bait - A photo tour of my mosquito-bite ridden legs. Also, we meet the Old Lady At The Gym who enjoys greeting me with, "How are the legs?"
1. The All Star Trivia Team - I attended trivia night at an Irish pub (no, really). My teammates were a table full of seemingly intelligent 30 somethings. We got destroyed. In this post, I would have presented my roster for an archetypal All-Star Pub Trivia Team.
2. Special Topics In Calamity Physics - The worst book I've ever read/The straw that finally broke my subscription to Entertainment Weekly's back.
3. Wall-E - I am alway, always underwhelmed by Pixar and Pixar-esque movies (the Incredibles might be in my all-time overrated Top 20). Not this time.
4. Summer in DC - Or, I've been bored before, but not like this.
5. Time to Rock - My old friend Jim brought his electric guitar down for the weekend and we proceeded to rock out in my basement like a couple of 16-year-olds. Except for the back, neck and finger pain.
6. DC United - In which I attend my first-ever professional soccer game and come away absolutely fascinated. American hooliganism. Who knew? Nationalism is totally weird. I had no idea we did that here. Also, a bonus discussion in which I compare attending a sporting event at RFK Stadium to shopping at one of New Jersey's few remaining dirt malls.
7. There Goes the Neighborhood - In which my friend Mark and I become the only regular White players at an all-Black tennis complex.
8. One Man Brand - my short documentary is finally finished and the early reviews are good. Next up: festival applications.
9. The Stella Scooter - In which my lifelong obsession with Vespas takes a major hit as I stumble upon a Stella parked in the neighborhood. Will life ever be the same? Perhaps we will find out tomorrow as I visit the dealership!
10. Mosquito Bait - A photo tour of my mosquito-bite ridden legs. Also, we meet the Old Lady At The Gym who enjoys greeting me with, "How are the legs?"
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Don't Believe The (Lack Of) Hype
A rainy Monday evening and I felt like getting out of the house. Took a bus over to the old-school Uptown movie palace for a 7:15 showing of Indiana Jones. I wasn't too excited, had heard nothing but bad things, but I really like seeing big dumb blockbusters at the Uptown—a big giant red room, balcony, only one screen, super loud speakers—and besides, seeing Raiders of the Lost Ark at the movie theater in the Ocean County Mall is one of my Top 3 childhood movie memories of all time, right up there with The Natural (same theater) and that glorious, never to be topped weekend where we saw The Goonies and Back to the Future on successive Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Wow. (Back to the Future is still in my Top 20, if anyone cares.)
So I felt like I owed it to Indy to at least see the new film in a theater. To put myself in the proper perspective, I decided to watch the movie pretending I was 10 years old, i.e., checking my snarky, dismissive adult self at the door. What would it be like to watch this movie as a kid (a kid from the 80s, anyway)? Well, it would be AWESOME!
Maybe Crystal Skull doesn't stack up to the current generation of fantasy blockbusters, but as an old-fashioned thrill ride, I thought it really worked. You've got the iconic lore of Indy himself-the hat, the Ark, the whip, the disconnect between the adventurer and the professor. You've got Russians as bad guys again. You've got motorcycle chases and killer ants. You've got creepy pseudo-historical stuff that makes you want to go back to archeology school. You've got Cate Blanchett sword fighting while standing atop a moving jeep. You've got a greasers vs. squares dustup in a 50s maltshop. You've got Karen Allen re-appearing on-screen as if she just shot her last scene in Raiders 5 minutes ago. You've got aliens. You've got shifty-looking CIA agents and shifty looking KGB agents. You've got Indy as the victim of McCarthyism. You've got double agents. You've got Shia Labouf asking Harrison Ford if he's 80. You've got, above all else, the preposterously awesome Indiana Jones theme music.
Whew. I swear, my ten-year-old self would have worshiped this shit! I'd have been begging my parents to take me to Toys R Us so I could pick up the Mutt action figure with switchblade action and motorcycle. I'd have been dressing my little sister up like an Incan warrior and chasing her up and down the stairs. I'd have been at the library checking out every young adult book I could find on aliens, South America, the Lost City of Gold, the Cold War, the 50s. Man, I'd have been totally freaking out.
As it was, I sat quietly in the theater with a giant goofy smile on my face, actually managing to tap into that sense of wonder that seemed a daily aspect of my childhood but has all but disappeared since. It was so refreshing to take something in without a critical, cynical eye. I think I'll try doing more of it in the future.
So I felt like I owed it to Indy to at least see the new film in a theater. To put myself in the proper perspective, I decided to watch the movie pretending I was 10 years old, i.e., checking my snarky, dismissive adult self at the door. What would it be like to watch this movie as a kid (a kid from the 80s, anyway)? Well, it would be AWESOME!
Maybe Crystal Skull doesn't stack up to the current generation of fantasy blockbusters, but as an old-fashioned thrill ride, I thought it really worked. You've got the iconic lore of Indy himself-the hat, the Ark, the whip, the disconnect between the adventurer and the professor. You've got Russians as bad guys again. You've got motorcycle chases and killer ants. You've got creepy pseudo-historical stuff that makes you want to go back to archeology school. You've got Cate Blanchett sword fighting while standing atop a moving jeep. You've got a greasers vs. squares dustup in a 50s maltshop. You've got Karen Allen re-appearing on-screen as if she just shot her last scene in Raiders 5 minutes ago. You've got aliens. You've got shifty-looking CIA agents and shifty looking KGB agents. You've got Indy as the victim of McCarthyism. You've got double agents. You've got Shia Labouf asking Harrison Ford if he's 80. You've got, above all else, the preposterously awesome Indiana Jones theme music.
Whew. I swear, my ten-year-old self would have worshiped this shit! I'd have been begging my parents to take me to Toys R Us so I could pick up the Mutt action figure with switchblade action and motorcycle. I'd have been dressing my little sister up like an Incan warrior and chasing her up and down the stairs. I'd have been at the library checking out every young adult book I could find on aliens, South America, the Lost City of Gold, the Cold War, the 50s. Man, I'd have been totally freaking out.
As it was, I sat quietly in the theater with a giant goofy smile on my face, actually managing to tap into that sense of wonder that seemed a daily aspect of my childhood but has all but disappeared since. It was so refreshing to take something in without a critical, cynical eye. I think I'll try doing more of it in the future.
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