Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Griffith Observatory

Although yesterday was super gloomy, I decided to make the best of it by visiting one of my favorite spots in LA, the Griffith Observatory.


There are several reasons why I absolutely love the observatory. First of all, the architecture is amazing. I didn't think it was possible for every angle of a building to be so beautiful! I especially love the details and the coloring of the doors and walls.


Second of all, this shit is free, people. Parking and all! Free is not a common phrase here in LA, so take advantage of it while it lasts. Third, the views from the observatory are breathtaking. Day or night (I prefer dusk!), Griffith is a great place to just sit down and meditate, which can be very beneficial in this crazy place. I would gladly trade in the time I sit in traffic to just sit around here.


Also, right next to the observatory are a bunch of hiking trails, including the one that leads to the Hollywood sign. No need to worry about poison oak or wild animals on these trails. As you can see, the paths are clearly laid out, which is great for just about anyone. Bring your pup, too. It's definitely a dog show on the weekends. Lastly, did I mention that coming here is free? Yup, I'm a cheap date, guys. Give me half of a beer and a trip to the observatory, and I'm yours. But really, I just know that you'll love this place as much as I do. Unfortunately, the observatory itself was closed (Mondays and Tuesdays), which means I'll have to come back to get shots of the light up Periodic Table of Elements some other time.

Griffith Observatory
2800 E Observatory Rd
Los Angeles, CA 90027

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Thrifting

What many people don't understand is that thrift store shopping really requires some kind of "eye" or talent. You can't just walk into a thrift store with the expectation of finding something amazing. Otherwise, you'll pick up something and convince yourself that it's great because it's one of a kind or it's "vintage," aka just plain old. I'm not saying that I'm a pro or anything; I just think that it's important for everyone to be aware, that's all. Trust me, I've had my fair share of shitty thrift store finds (and pictures to prove it!). Anyway, in efforts to prepare for my dinner party next month, and to just spruce up our apartment in general, I took a little trip to my local thrift shop located on the historic Fairfax Avenue in Little Ethiopia, which just so happens to be owned by the the National Council of Jewish Women (just in case you were wondering). Here are my favorite finds of the day:

I love this cascading plant stand. We've been wanting a little more plant life in our apartment, so I think it'd be the perfect addition to our living room. I just can't get myself to put down $100 for it! I'm hoping the price will go down soon. Or I'll just have to grow some and try to negotiate with them.


As much as I would love to take this antique sewing machine home, I don't think it'd "fit in" in our place. It's still something pretty nifty to look at. Who knows, I may want it for my future home. But I don't know how to sew, so I'd feel like somewhat of an imposter if I took it home.


Everything about this globe was perfect, except for the fact that some of the countries have been rubbed off (I'm guessing it was due to water damage). I realize that it is pretty old, but I at least want it to be functional when I'm giving my guests geography lessons.


I've seen a good amount of mirrors like this on previous thrifting trips, but I can't get myself to buy one. It really is beautiful, but not really functional for my every day routine. Hm, maybe I'll find a place for it..


This is another item in which I am waiting for the price to go down. I especially love the detail of this lamp. It would compliment our Klimt canvas so well! Again, I just can't put down the $100 for it right now.


As I'm typing this, I'm kind of regretting not taking this canvas home with me. But as I keep looking at this woman's face more and more, I can't help but see Angelina Jolie laughing back at me. I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing yet.   


I love the colors and the antiqueness of these napkin rings. But buying them means that I have to buy some great napkins to go with them. Ugh, what a dilemma. 


Needless to say, my indecisive days are definitely not over. I'm just the kind of girl who likes to have 24 hours (or more) to really think about what I'm putting my money into. Trust me, this is a blessing and a curse. But I'm off tomorrow, so I may just snatch one (or two) of these great finds up! And if they're gone.. Well, then I guess it just wasn't meant to be.

NCJWLA Thrift Shop
1052 S Fairfax Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90019

Friday, February 17, 2012

Street Styled: Jahlysa

Birthday Week

As you know, this week has been extra special since my birthday was on the 15th. Like most normal people, I've been celebrating all week long! I've had approximately 3 1/2 drinks, 2 1/2 cupcakes, and lots of delicious food and good times with my family and friends. Here's to 23 years of life! And more adventures to come! Here is my week in Instagram pix, followed by my amazing gifts:

(1) Vintage plates and tea cups from Rachelle for our apartment. She has the best eye! 2) Gorgeous flowers from my one and only Valentine. It's all I asked for. 3) A carefully crafted terrarium from my co-workers. After trying it in almost every room, it now sits in our bathroom. 4) JewelMint friendship bracelets and earrings from Abi. The arm party continues!)

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Valentine's Day

Inspired by Cupcakes and Cashmere, baked and decorated by Kasha, with the help of Lisa, and yours truly!


Rather than try to find somebody to love for the day, I'm going to make sure that I do something that I love. I'll report back later! Have a wonderful day! :)

Friday, February 10, 2012

Short Order

I know, I know, it's been a exactly a week and a day since my last post. It's a blogging sin, I'm fully aware! But I'm back now, and I promise this won't happen again in the near future.

Anyway, I finally got to check out one of LA's newest burger joints, Short Order, located at the Farmer's Market on 3rd and Fairfax. If you've ever been to the Farmer's Market, you know how stressful it can be. On top of finding the perfect effortless outfit to peruse the Grove in (post to come), you have another pretty crucial decision to make: what to eat. Japanese, Korean, Indonesian, Mediterranean.. You name it and the Farmer's Market has it. So, in efforts to make your decision a little easier next time, check out Short Order.



What I love about Short Order (and just learned!) was that it was created by a set of BFFz (Amy and Nancy) who, for 30 years, have shared a passion for food and cooking. Did I mention that they emphasize organic and locally raised ingredients? Let's just say my tomato was brown in color. I know, I'm impressed, too. But let's get to the good stuff..


I ordered Ida's Old School Burger, which consisted of grass-fed beef, cheddar, pickles, tomato, griddled onion, iceberg lettuce, and secret sauce. Like one Yelper said, "I feel like I'm eating farm!" The ingredients were amazingly fresh, and the burger was simply delicious. I'll definitely be back to try one of their melts. And a custard shake. And cookies. And maybe pie. Okay, bye.

Short Order
6333 W 3rd St
Los Angeles, CA 90036

P.S. Guess whose birthday is next week! And guess who is already getting gifties.. :)