California Adventures

I spoiled myself with an entire week in Southern California.

Day 1, Sunday:
My best friend (my Navy friend, like the military not the color) and her fiance picked me up from the airport. It was one of the most memorable arrivals. I was so happy to see her run down the escalator to give me a great, big hug. The rest of the day was spent hanging out and watching TV together, which is what we do best.

Day 2, Monday:
I met up with an old friend from TX, and we teamed up to discover San Diego. We went to the Old Town where we browsed around the little shops. The day got even better when we spent the evening watching the sunset at Coronado Beach.


Day 3, Tuesday:
My TX friend and I rocked the San Diego Zoo. I love koalas and pandas. I was lucky enough to see one of the koalas eating, since they usually sleep all day. That evening, I persisted to hassle my best friend's fiance (who grew up in Australia) to tell me personal stories about koalas. My Navy friend and I cooked dinner too (she made up the recipe), and it turned out great!


Day 4, Wednesday:
My Navy friend and I crossed the border to Tijuana, Mexico where we enjoyed 3 tacos for $1. I learned that a spritz of lemon on food does wonders to the flavors. I got to haggle for the first time too when I was buying my sis a shotglass. I got it for two bucks and a hug apparently. I probably had the most uncomfortable expression when I found out he wasn't kidding about the hug.

Day 5, Thursday:
My Navy friend's and her fiance's favorite radio station dj was going to be at Margarita Rocks, a dance club, that night. It was the first time I drank alcohol with my Navy friend. I have to admit, it was pretty cool to hang out with a bunch of sailors.

Day 6, Friday:
This was the special day I was reunited with Hot Dog on a Stick. Cheese on a stick is delicious. Enough said.

Day 7, Saturday:
Los Angeles!... and somehow I brought rain with me. This changed plans a bit, but I had a great time shopping at the Grove and eating at the Farmer's Market.

Day 8, Sunday:
This was a BIG day. I got to see the famous Hollywood sign high in the mountains. I was told that the sign had fresh paint as a gift for its centennial celebration. It was supposed to be brighter paint than before. It looked clear to me! I also walked along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. I learned that there are several categories a person can earn a spot on this sidewalk, which explains why some people had more than one star. I also noticed the blank spots on the sidewalk for upcoming celebrities...hmm... maybe if this engineering thing doesn't work out. Disneyland and California Adventures Theme Parks were last on our agenda. I somehow managed to walk out with HUGE Mickey hands/gloves and ears and began to wonder if deep down I wanted to be Mickey. Why did I get all this stuff? It was just so cute!

Day 9, Monday:
My Navy friend and I celebrated New Year's Eve just like the old days. It was a little late, but it didn't matter to us. We got so wasted on Sparking Grape Juice her fiance had to drive us around. Then it was back to the airport for me.

I'll sure miss this... But I'll miss this so much more...