Exploring LA

Wow, what a day we had today.  Never made it up to go walking with Elizabeth. We had breakfast with Thom and then decided to take the LA Metro and go downtown and explore LA.  We've never really spent any time in downtown proper. Thom was kind enough to drive us to the Metro station at Universal Studio.  We took the train to the last stop at Union Station. A grand old station with some great art work.  In fact, the Metro stations all have some interesting art work.  We talked with one of the Metro Art Docents on the train - they give tours of the Metro art - maybe next time.

Leaving the station, we walked through the Mexican section, Chinese section and then over to the Disney Concert Hall. A fabulous building that you are free to roam around (outside only). 

It was time for lunch when we ran into the Water Park  at the California Plaza - a great outside eatery. Grabbed a salad at Lettuce Rock You and sat down and enjoyed the waterfalls.  The Angel Flight tramway starts up there as well.  We were hoping to get a ride, but it has been closed for a while now. So we trekked down the multitude of stairs and landed at the Grand Central Market.  As all grand markets, this one was not to disappoint.  The smells and sights were amazing. Ran into the mole counter and gave a chuckle - lined up were the various different types of moles that we had been educated on in Santa Monica.  Got some ice cream and coffee and headed for the Bradbury building, where they filmed Bladrunner.  Across the street is the Million Dollar Theater, another landmark.  Our last stop before heading back was the Biltmore Hotel.  Very popular back in the day with all the big stars. In fact, the Oscars were once held there many moons ago.  

And speaking of Oscars, the are airing this Sunday. We knew they were setting up so we took the Metro to Hollywood and Vine - which by the way, is a great Metro Station and walked the mile down to the Dolby Theater where they were getting ready for the big day.  Lots of activity.  It was really getting late now and we knew we had a 2 mile walk from the station to the house, so we jumped back on the train.  

Got in around 5 or so and got ready as fast as we could in order to make it to dinner.  Ate at Presecco Trattoria in Toluca Lake.  A bit pricey but the food was great and the service was impeccable.  We had a lovely relaxing meal.  Walked down to the Falcon Theater to collect our tickets.  We had a few minutes to kill, so we went across the street to Bob's Big Boy where every Friday night they have a vintage car fest.  What a hoot!

Back at the theater, in our seats, which were great - last row, dead center.  The theater is very small so the back row is not very back at all.  Kelly Carlin did 95 minutes on growing up with George as a daddy with lots of video clips and stills.  She was very good and the one woman show moved very nicely.  Certainly was an interesting childhood. However, we both have to say that the Carlin clips were the best part.

We are back nestled in our lovely room and more than ready for bed. Tomorrow we are hoping to get to Andy's (Alena's husband) softball game and then go spend the rest of the day with Liam, Ilana and Tali. Also need to do another wash before heading to Vietnam on Sunday!  

Please note that there is a new photo album.  Sweet dreams.

Next time... Batter up!