the weekend is upon us...

What one can do in L.A.? Plenty! Last Saturday night about 8pm, I randomly called the beautiful CoCo, our recent transplant from Chicago (you may have seen her with her bright Poppy, the granddaughter, poolside.) and asked her if she wanted to join me for dinner. She delightedly accepted and 15 minutes later we were off on an adventure. I took CoCo downtown and showed her a part of L.A. she has not yet had the chance to experience. What she discovered was a nightlife and inspirational structures and features.

We started at one of my favorites in the Arts District which I have mentioned before, Cafe Metropol. Dinner, wine and a lively jazz act that had a packed audience. Views of some graffiti art and a drive by of Urth Cafe, hidden amongst the lofts and warehouses.

From there, on through Little Tokyo and up the hill to Disney Concert Hall where I parked. I walked CoCo around the Disney gardens and the special Delft Blue 'Rose' water fountain, designed by Frank Gehry. (People this is one of the treasures of the city. There are times when I will go and sit in these gardens during the day (pack a lunch) or at night. Beautiful and peaceful (and secure) with great city views. CHECK IT OUT!) We strolled over a block for a look at the Music Center plaza and people were out and about everywhere.

Then a drive by the Cathedral, MOCA, Water Court, Central Library and the Biltmore Hotel. (With a glance at G.B. Harb & Son Fine Men's Clothing Store. Doors will be closing soon on this establishment so get in there to take advantage of the sale and get yourself a great suit!)

What CoCo was surprised to find on our little jaunt that night was that L.A. does constantly have its moments and spots that give you the big city feel & energy of a New York or Chicago, but in our own unique L.A. way. A grand cross section of cultures and activities. So once again, I implore my fellow Gaylord residents when you are not feeling L.A. just get yourself out there and explore. You will be amazed at what you might discover.

At the end of the night, when we returned to our happy home here at the Gaylord around 11:30pm, CoCo pronounced that she could not wait to get back downtown and experience the city some more.