Maria's Thursday Three: Fonts, Online Shops and an Atwater Boutique

1. Obamabats: Forget about Gotham, Obama's font of choice for his political campaign. Designer Jeff Domke created this collection of Obama dingbats in honor of the president-elect. Available for download and use free-of-charge. I like free.

2. Frecklewonder: I wish I can fit into this dress, featured in Frecklewonder's online shop. Seriously, this lady has an eye for fashion and vintage is her game. And the prices? Far too good to be true.

3. Amelia Fitzwater: I kinda want to keep this store to myself, tucked away among beauty salons and gallery spaces along Glendale Blvd. in Atwater Village. The assortment of cards, jewelry, books, accessories and everything else is top notch.

Maria's Thursday Three

1. The Story: As a long-time listener of NPR, I was thrilled to discover American Public Media's "The Story," hosted by Dick Gordon, while we were driving through Vermont and New Hampshire a few weeks ago. Filled with first-hand accounts, "The Story" gives listeners a chance "to understand events through the experiences of real people." Their recent series on "Bankers, Brokers and Bandits" gives a good perspective on current events-- I originally thought it would be depressing to listen to but it somehow made me think positive on the outcome of our economy. Podcast download? Check.


2. Amai Tea House: If you are ever in New York City, please visit Amai Tea House. Their Matcha Tea Latte is just heavenly and the baked goods are extraordinary, you'll probably not see their offerings anywhere else. I've been following Kelli's blog for years and her spot in the Gramercy Park area is a sweet haven in a big city.



3. Los Angeles Magazine: Los Angeles Magazine still floats my boat. Sure they have the best guides in restaurants and shopping but their editorial is just superb on all things Los Angeles. Chris Nichols' column is riddled with all the nerdy details about L.A. you always wanted to know and their investigative story on the Zankou Chicken empire, for instance, provides you with a rare insight on a complex family. The celebrity content? Minimal-- how refreshing!

Maria's Thursday Three: Pandora, LACMA and Kisses

1. Pandora: When I tire of listening to my mix of songs on iTunes, I turn to Pandora online. Type in an artist's name or a song and they play music that shares the same tempo and style as your entry. I've discovered and re-discovered good songs through this site.

2. L.A. Flash: LACMA is having another late night event this Saturday, Sept. 6, celebrating L.A.'s street style. Could be really fun, and you can be part of a bigger project and end up in the museum's photo archives. From their site:

In 1973, LACMA commissioned five photographers to document LA street style. Thirty-five years later, we’re celebrating the project—LA Flash—by asking what your LA street style looks like today. Dress the part for this late night art event—photos taken during the evening will be added to the museum’s archives at lacmalaflash.org.


(Pic by Summer Is Ending.)

3. Hershey's Pumpkin Spice Kisses: As fall approaches, Mike is always on the lookout for any place that would sell pumpkin-flavored anything. The new pumpkin spice flavored kisses are a hit at our house-- it sort of taste likes a pumpkin smoothie compacted in a tiny piece of creamy candy. (Target also has Candy Corn flavored Kisses, and is rumored to have a new Caramel Apple flavor as well.)

Maria's Thursday Three: Breakfast, the Olympics and Decals

1. Perfect Breakfast: Lately, we've been into this yogurt and granola mix for breakfast. It's a Trader Joe's combo: The market's French Village Vanilla Nonfat Yogurt, with its "Granola & the 3 Berries" mix (honey sweetend whole grain oats and whole grain wheat, wih freeze-dried raspberries, blueberrys and strawberries). It's so easy to prepare and best of all, Evan loves it.



2. Olympic Fever: Yes, we have it and as the Summer Games end, I'd like to direct you to Jenny's site, ljcfyi.com. Jenny's currently in Beijing and blogging all about it. I've read her blog for years and got excited when the company she works for sent her there to write all about it. (Pic by ljcfyi.)



3. Wall Decals: We're thinking of re-doing Evan's room and I ambitiously told Mike that I would paint some wall graphics on the wall. He correctly doubted me, 'cause I never have time for anything like that, but then I was trolling Design Sponge the other night (I make time for trolling) and saw these wall decals, my problems were solved. Trains or cars would be perfect for the room but since they have none, Evan may have to settle for the airplane.

Maria's Thursday Three: "Runway," Loteria and the Levitt

1. Holla Atcha Boy: "Project Runway" is back, and it's been hard for me and Mike to pick a favorite just yet, but I've been impressed with what Terri's been doing so far. Meanwhile, thanks to Mike's job, we just got a sneak peak of the first episode of "Top Design." It's gonna be good! Several designers who are already established in their own right, with some colorful personalities mixed in. Great casting, while Todd Oldham takes a back seat to become a mentor for the contestants (a la Tim Gunn) and India Hicks has joined as the new host. Plus, from what I can tell, future episodes feature past "Project Runway" contestants and Jeff Lewis.

2. Loteria Grill in Hollywood: We checked out the new space in Hollywood last weekend, and I love it. Going to the Farmer's Market location always stressed me out, having to line up, wait for the food and score a place to sit. There's something great about the wide-open space, the high ceilings, the attentive waiters, the jalapeño margaritas and the oversized Mexican folk art cards (all while Hollywood walks by) that make me want to come back to this place. The food seems to have the same price as the Farmer's Market location, and the drinks are potent but expensive. (See photo gallery in the post below.)

3. Summer Concerts at The Levitt Pavillion: Wednesday nights you can find TKFKABT and I at the Levitt Pavillion with a picnic and some friends having fun on Children's Night. It can get really crowded, but you can still score a decent spot if you get there before 6:30 pm. Plop down a blanket and enjoy the night. This week, the Kid grooved out to the music as acrobats performed some pretty cool stunts, as part of a circus-themed show. The concerts/events are always free at the Levitt.

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Starving Artist Mondays at Luna Park: I stumbled on this nice find on a random Monday night out with a friend: The prix fixe dinner offer at Luna Park. For $18 you get a choice of appetizer (I picked the goat cheese fondue with apples and bread), entree (salmon with lentils) and dessert (build-it-yourself smores)-- a pretty good deal, and a nice spot to catch up with an old friend.

2. Sweet Potato Fries of Love: The sweet potato fries are back in the freezer aisles at Trader Joe's! I longingly search for them in the freezer every time I go to TJ's, but the item went missing for a few years. The fries are back! I quickly picked up two bags in my excitement.

3. Top Chef: A promising season premiere, with Bourdain back on the first episode. I'm not sure who I like yet but I always feel bad about the first person to go. One thing for sure, there's a whole lot of swearing going on this season.

Maria's Thursday Three

(Flickr pic by ruimin84.)

1. The Walt Disney Concert Hall Rooftop: Add this to your list of free things to do in L.A. The roof is a pleasant spot to spend some time on a weekend, as you're surrounded by beautiful trees and plants, a mosaic flower fountain and a children's amphitheater. With benches and small tables scattered around, I'm always thinking about going there with a picnic lunch.

2. The Black Apple: One of my favorite artists from Etsy is The Black Apple's Emily Martin. She captures a perfect blend of melancholy and groove in her art. Consider getting this print or this one.

3. "Lost": It was satisfying seeing Desmond make contact with Penny, despite that crazy radioactive time travel plot bend. Do Sun and Jin round out the Oceanic Six? And are Desmond and baby Aaron the seventh and eight survivors? Does evil Ben count?

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Thank You: Some long overdue thank yous are in order to our readers who have sent us stuff. First off to Derek Powell, thanks for pushing us into Wi-Fi territory by giving us your extra router. Honestly, your box sat there for a month as we stared at each other waiting for the other to blink and finally, Mike saved the day and connected everything. Secondly, thanks to someone from 90039 -- Atwater Village, I believe -- for sending us a CD of "Christmas Music That Doesn't Suck." Love the tracks.

2. Elvis and Our MacBook: We recently purchased a MacBook -- secure in our timing that Apple wouldn't put out a new version, since they just announced the release of MacBook Air. So imagine our dismay when the computer giant released new editions of the MacBook and MacBook Pro two days ago. We love Apple, but have a long history of buying their products shortly before a new model comes out. Elvis, manager of the Grove Apple Store, restored our faith when he let us come in and exchange our model for the newest one. We had to pay a 10% re-stocking fee, but it all evened out in the end, as we got a faster computer with more space.

3. Franklin Avenue Turns Five: March marks the fifth anniversary of Franklin Avenue and we are planning something big. Something along the lines of a certain race. You interested? Stay tuned for more announcements.

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Wall of Gift Cards at the Grocery Store: An unspoken tradition in my family has become the giving of gift cards as birthday presents. Unimaginative, I know, but with 6 birthdays in February alone from our combined family, it's necessary. I've come to really appreciate those walls of gift cards at the local Vons or Ralphs which allows me to make my selections while I get the necessary bread and milk. They offer up gift cards for countless businesses -- Home Depot, Gap, Eddie Bauer, etc. -- and you don't have to make a trip to the mall as a result.

2. The Great L.A. Cupcake Map: Via Eating L.A., I discovered this google map compiled by the L.A. Times of the cupcake bakeries cropping up in and around Los Angeles. I could make it my personal mission to try each and everyone -- I'll do it for the blog (oh, the sacrifices make). I'm just happy those mini red velvet cupcakes at Auntie Em's are within 3 miles of us.

3. Biirdie: Recently discovered this group from Glendale. Good to know a local band is making some waves in the music scene.

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Tony's Creole Seasoning: We recently discovered this seasoning at a recent visit to our friends Pang-Ni and Ian's place. A dash of it on our eggs gave it a good zing. Apparently, there are plenty of creole seasonings out there but make sure to get the Tony's brand. As they say in Louisiana, "Please pass the Tony's."


(Flickr pic by Formwerks.)

2. Yolk: Love this Silver Lake store apparently under new ownership. It had a good vibe inside and they even let BT ride around the store with a modern scooter on display without any warnings. Filled with products for the home and kids, some nice greeting cards and gift products, you can find stuff priced just right if you need to get a gift for someone.



3. Runway: Unless he falters real bad with his collection, I think Christian will be the winner of Project Runway. Chris is the dark horse, Jillian is judges' favorite, Rami is excellent but a bit one-note but Christian is fierce.

Maria's Thursday Three

(Flickr pic by lushlulu.)

1. Hazelnut Latte: My new favorite drink at The Coffee Bean is their Hazelnut Latte -- that hazelnut flavor combined with the powdered vanilla is such a delicious combination perfect for a rainy, cold day.

2. Whole Foods Bulk: My pal Andrea has turned me into the section at Whole Foods that I usually ignore, bulk food. They have a huge selection and I was surprised when my total for some oats and popcorn kernels came to 98 cents. A trip to Whole Foods for under a dollar? I couldn't believe it either.

3. Amazing Race: Hilary's faves (and Huntington Beach locals) TK and Rachel won but found myself strangely rooting for Ron and Christina. They had matured and come together as a team toward the end with no more arguments and hernia complaints. Their non-win reflects the heart of "Amazing Race": The reason for the show's success is not just about the race, it's about the relationships. I'm fine with TK and Rachel's win-- that trivia challenge in the end was mighty hard and Rachel pulled through nicely.

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Goldfish Love: When feeling sick and achy all over, Goldfish pretzels have a way of making me better. They're the equivalent of soda crackers, I suppose, but Goldfish pretzels are the better way to go. Combine them with cheddar cheese sticks (toddler food, I know).

2. Raul's Blog Love: Raul has been counting down his ten favorite songs for 2007. He's turned me on to the group the National (where have I been?)-- at #3 right now, I can't wait to see what his choice is for #1.

[Mike notes: Apparently Maria hasn't listened to my 2004 Choice Cuts compilation!]

3. iShuffle Love: Collectively, we have an iPod classic, a nano and a shuffle -- but my weapon of choice when going to the gym is the shuffle. I just clip this invention the size of a matchbook to my shirt while struggling on the elliptical machine, my very own mixed tape in a teeny tiny silver rectangle.

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Not So Amazing Goths: I was so dissapointed that Goths Kynt and Vyxsin were eliminated on the last episode of The Amazing Race. Why they didn't yield Team Bickering Couple will forever be a mystery. And the slow realization that Jennifer and Nathan might just win the race annoys me. I'm now pulling for Nicolas and Donald to win, even though I thought they would be the first ones to get eliminated. Maybe doing something drastic like getting a tattoo for the race will give them good karma.

2. Rose Parade Aftermath: Driving down Colorado Blvd. on New Year's Day made me so angry, as people who camped out just left all their trash on the street. What a disgusting sight seeing trash everywhere. No wonder the businesses along the boulevard take extra precaution to use chain-link fences to protect their property.


3. Fomato Cards: Our friend Emmie is the creator of the very clever Fomato Cards. Go ahead, check her fun site and see samples of her greeting cards. When I see them at the store, I want to buy each and every one to give to people.

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Gabba Love: I found this Yo Gabba Gabba Puppet Project online and took it a step further by making them into little softies for Evan. Just print them out on iron-on sheets, iron them on to white cotton fabric and sew together. I filled mine with dried beans for the weight and throwaround factor. They all went into Evan's Christmas stocking -- and an extra Brobee found its way into Mike's stocking as well, so a fight will not break out.

2. Pasadena's Holly Street: The block on Holly between N. Fair Oaks and Raymond is filled with cool stores and restaurants worth exploring. For starters, we want to try the Tibetan or Thai restaurant, and then check out the surrounding stores, which include Silver Me Jewelry, Dream of Tibet, and Lula Mae. The Majestical Roof store is a bit hidden around the corner but the courtyard where it's at seems magical, while the store offers one-of-a-kind items from local artists. Lastly, I guess you'd have to try something yummy from >Violet's Cakes after all that walking around.

3. Baked or Fried: My friend and I found ourselves at a McDonald's reminiscing about how their apple pies used to be so good because they were fried. The manager overheard us and insisted that they were always baked. We retorted, "Oh no, young man, they used to be fried." He walked away a little bemused. Then, as we were eating, he came by with two fried apple pies -- on the house. (He apparently threw the pies into the deep fryer. Not quite the same as the old McDonald's pies -- these were the modern, baked pies simply fried up. But a nice effort.) All I could manage was a couple of bites after all the grease but it was GOOD.

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Altadena's Christmas Tree Lane: It's not that impressive in the photo but it sure is pretty darn neat driving down an approximately two-blocks-length of huge trees lit up. I found a driving tip here to exit at Fair Oaks off the 134 freeway and head north to Woodbury. Turn right on Woodbury and then left on Santa Rosa Avenue.

2. Post Office Girl is Scary: I've been to the post office a few times this week and each and every time, the standee of the girl promoting their Priority Mail line scares the living daylights out of me. Each. And. Every. Time. She has crazy eyes. I wish I had my camera with me to show you guys if you don't know what I'm talking about.

3. FIDM Scholarship Store: My friend Jamile told me about this store and I stumbled into it on a recent downtown adventure. They have some good deals; of course, you have to do a lot of digging. But their accessories are good, they sell fabric for a buck or two a yard, and I scored a skirt for 50 cents.

Maria's Thursday Three: Downtown Edition

(Flickr pic by rsebastian.)

1.Grand Central Market: This is still one of my favorite places to go to downtown; it is bustling and alive at every visit. I love getting my produce there, and there are a couple of good spice, beans, and grain counters as well. But mostly, I love seeing families gathered at the tables and eating their meals together.

2.Wonton's Blog: Downtown pooch Wonton has started a blog. Part diary and all funny, Wonton chronicles his life living downtown and living with the man and woman who take care of him.

3.Library Bar: A couple months back, we checked out downtown's Library Bar and ended up really liking it. It was very low-key inside, with several tables scattered about. The coveted spot is the sofa lounge area facing a wall of bookshelves. We were a tad tired and didn't stay as long as we would have liked, but it just seems like a good place to take a load off while sipping something good.

Maria's Thursday Three

(Flickr pic by Scaredy Kat.)

1. Din Tai More Fun: On a recent visit to Din Tai Fung in Arcadia, I discovered that they just opened a new location behind the original spot. More reason to not avoid the place if you have a craving for their juicy dumpling. But the hands-down best time to go? At around 1:45 pm in the middle of the week.

2. Mint M&Ms On Steroids: This time of year, Mike usually stocks up on mint M&Ms. When we opened a package the other day we discovered that those tiny dots of goodness just got bigger. I will even declare that the shell-to-chocolate ratio is better.

3. Cafeteria Money: I still have about $400 in my cafeteria health plan and I'm almost running out of time to use it. Turns out that when your child turns two, you don't need to go in for a doctor's visit that often. Any suggestions on how I can get that money back? Teeth whitening? Chiropractor visits? Can I legally get a massage as a medical expense?

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Owen's Market on Pico: Driving down Pico doing research a couple of weeks back, I noticed this market, with the striking black & white awning and green grass-colored wall. Seems Owens Market recently had a makeover and now features a candy shop and gourmet goodies alongside vintage cookbooks and organic cleaning products. Might be a worthwhile stop on the Great Walk this weekend.

2. Black Friday: Thanks to Franklin Avenue reader Hollywood for linking to this site, which offers a preview of what's on special for Black Friday. We try not to get caught in the frenzy but there have been a couple of years where Mike lined up at the Best Buy after his Hawaiian Eye radio show just to get a good deal.

3. Central Library: Not only is the Central Library one of my favorite buildings in downtown, it boasts one of the coolest bookstores. They sell a vast array of greeting cards, a fair amount of cool stuff for kids, nice jewelry and some inexpensive gift items for the upcoming holidays.

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Tamale Time: This weekend marks the third annual Tamale Festival in McArthur Park at Mama's Hot Tamales Cafe. We've missed this festival in the past but I think we are in for some tamales this weekend.

2. Steve & Barry's in Santa Monica: We stumbled into a Steve & Barry's store in the old Robinson's May location at the Santa Monica Place mall, and did a quick shopping spree with a toddler in tow. Normally, shopping with BT equals putting salt on an open wound but we couldn't resist the deals. Mike made off with 3 work shirts for under $20 and I got a couple of pants and a really soft t-shirt from Sarah Jessica Parker's Bitten line for under $40.

3. Homasote: Hom-a-what? I've scoured the aisles at Lowes and Home Depot looking for this product to make something like this, but could not find it and was too intimidated to ask. Is it called something else at the store?

Maria's Thursday Three

1. Plate Envy: We finally scored these divided plates for Evan at Target for under $2. I've been wondering where Just Jenn got hers from, but how on earth can I make such beautiful, well-balanced meals for Evan?

2. Simply Good Tomato Sauce: I vowed to make Marcella Hazan's tomato sauce after reading about it on The Amateur Gourmet and Masak Masak blogs. It uses four ingredients, requires little knife skills, takes 45 minutes and voila, out comes some pretty damn good sauce. Check out the recipe here.

3. Reform School: This little shop in Silver Lake is such a treat to visit, filled with items made by crafters/artists I admire. It's a must place to go for some gift shopping.