Hello Breeps!
I really love this time of year – the clocks go back an hour on Sunday and it starts to get dark early, and there’s a crispness in the air which, although not quite British, reminds you that the seasons are changing. It’s finally a time when Angelenos can wear a good jacket at night.
A misconception about LA is that it’s hot all the time. In fact it’s often the case that temperatures can drop a good twenty degrees from day to night which comes in very handy if you’ve got a fancy costume ready for Halloween. As most of you know, All Hallows Eve, as it was once known, is a pretty big deal in LA and it’s not just for the kids. Ground zero will once again be West Hollywood and especially Santa Monica Boulevard, which is always swarmed by adult cosplay (that’s costume play to the uninitiated!) Hallowe’en in WeHo is truly a magnificent sight and has to be done at least once, although I haven’t been down there in a few years since the last time I lost most of my party, and couldn’t make contact with them because of the concentration of people and cell service. I ended up walking three miles home due to the lack of cabs, which was horrific, and not in a good way!
I much prefer a good bar party or house party at Halloween and I’m a fan of looking in my wardrobe and seeing what I can make out of what I already own. No slutty fireman for me, but a pirate is easy to do! But whatever you decide, make sure you are safe and have a meeting place for you and your friends. It can be spooky out there at night!
Another reason I love this time of year is because of the music. LA is one of the best places in the world to see music live and our fair city is a real destination spot for tours, whether it’s up- -and-coming acts at the Wiltern, the Troubadour or the Fonda theatre, or an established superstart like Madonna at the Forum, which I happened to see this week. I have to say it was remarkable, the best show I’ve seen her do in years. She was so comfortable and relaxed and athletic and entertaining. She even dragged Katy Perry up on stage for a spanking, I mean, where else would THAT happen? At 57 it looks like she isn’t even at her peak. Both physically and emotionally it seems her arrested development is forever 21. Cheeky, fun, talented and seductive, no wonder she always attracts the younger man. Viva Madonna!
Speaking of music, I’m a huge fan of Adele and her new single “Hello” is blowing up the charts and breaking records. The biggest downloaded single of the year, looks like she may have a great year at the Grammys. Hello Adele, it’s me? Hoping the album is just as good!
Let’s party!
And this time of year also brings out the holiday parties and do we have one for you! This year Brits in LA are teaming up with the British Consulate and the UKares Foundation hosting a wonderful reception at the British Residence in Hancock Park where UKares will be honoring three very giving human beings who have made a difference with their charity work throughout the years. We will have carolers, musical guests, minced pies, mulled wine and great fun is assured for all – Tickets go on sale on Monday November 2nd and can be purchased at: www.ukaresevents.eventbrite.com.
I’ll end with a challenge for you. After coming back from the UK this summer, I’d packed on a few unwanted pounds and sort of dreaded trying to get back into shape. But with the help of Ricky and JC – two of the best personal trainers in LA (and both British) I set myself the 10-day fitness challenge. And I’m happy to say I completed it and feel much stronger and healthier for it. Each day I pushed myself to do a piece of exercise. No matter what and for at least 30 minutes to an hour each day. I hiked, I swam, I ran, I went to the gym, I biked, I ran with the dog, I did yoga – each day something new, which stopped the boredom, but the result has now propelled me to get back on track. So I challenge you to do the same. Send me updates on Facebook to let me know how it’s going for you – I’m here to support you!
Until next time…
Craig
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