This morning I got the full experience of a city that was not built for precipitation. There are potholes on Wilshire Boulevard that I believe have, so far, swallowed a Prius and two Smart Cars.
However, this weekend was full of the features that put a little squeeze on the hearts of those of us who love Los Angeles.
First, the weather. Cool, sunny, clear. Driving east on Santa Monica Boulevard, one could look down a colonnade of palm trees past the Hollywood sign to the snow-covered mountains beyond; spectacular.
Second, the farmer's market. For years, Mr. P and I missed the Beverly Hills market because we were usually in a class or two while it was going on. Now that our Sundays are less fully-committed, we've ventured out and discovered a brave new world of organic, local roots, herbs, and fruit; grass-fed beef, poultry and eggs; artisan goat cheese; and handmade blessings like honey, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Plus, there is a petting zoo, with two of the cutest, tiniest, furriest black piglets you ever saw.
Third, the movies. This town would probably continue to exist if the world stopped watching movies, but until it does, we have all the awards shows and red carpets and premieres, and the corresponding poshness in department-store windows. We also have multiple multi-plexes at which to go and see things like "Avatar" in 3-D.
I was not eager to see "Avatar" but am happy to report that I am fully converted. I really enjoyed it; fast-paced, well-constructed, beautiful to look at, and emotionally satisfying. I will say that I think the avalanche of praise for James Cameron's vision (and stamina) has overshadowed the human element that makes the movie work, in particular the completely engaging performance of Zoe Saldana.
And on top of everything else, we danced a lot this weekend. Mr. P and I are in training for the USA Dance Southwest Regional Championships, coming up on Feb 5-6 in Long Beach. Thanks to a couple of revelatory sessions with our longtime coach Sonny Perry, we are looking forward to our first competitive foray in nearly two years.
I will also be teaching Bolero for the next two weeks at Ballroom by the Bay. Come out and join us at 7:00 on Wednesday at the Santa Monica Bay Women's Club! We will be covering basic figures, variations, and technique before the general-dancing fun starts.
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