Las Vegas Adventures

Posted on March 25, 2014 by 4evamaria

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I made it back alive.

I’m back to the adult world of bills and errands. And it’s raining. I’m trying not to be too sad about it, and part of me is genuinely glad. I can now do socially acceptable things like sleep, buy a Starbuck’s latte for under $4, and re-hydrate. Despite my previous post on what to bring to Vegas, I found myself failing to heed my own advice. Yes, ibuprofen was needed. Did I bring some? Of course not! I would also like to add that, should one be spending anytime poolside, remember to bring a hat and a lip balm with SPF protection. My scalp and lips are somewhat dry today, to say the least. I somehow forgot that Las Vegas is in the middle of the desert, and is therefore very hot and dry.

Unfortunately, this go-around my good friend Susie came down with appendicitis right before she was scheduled to leave. While we were incredibly sad to have not been able to see her this last weekend, we were so relieved that she was with her family, had access to a hospital and could get the best treatment possible. In other news, this means another trip to Las Vegas is being planned for the year. While I would very much like to respect the age-old adage that “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” some things are too exciting to not share. Rachel and I are two peas in a pod when it comes to our social life in the Bay Area, but we have somehow not ever made it to Vegas together. I was glad we could finally remedy that, and took a few nice photos to document our trip. Meanwhile Rachel, who always thinks on her feet, took some blackmail-worthy photographs and videos of yours truly. Which is now why I must always remain friends with her. We had one hell of a time, to say the least.

This was my Monday, world. I did get a bit of a sunburn, despite re-applying sunscreen incessantly.

The infamous Chandelier in The Cosmopolitan.

Because where else would you find Liberace’s bejeweled car in the lobby of a hotel?

Fantastic chocolates at Jean Philippe Patisserie at the Aria. The more elegant side of Las Vegas.

It isn’t a vacation if you don’t have Pinkberry. On mine, you will find an assortment of children’s cereals. I’m never growing up!

This is, unfortunately, what happens when two girls have an entire hotel bathroom to themselves. Like a makeup bomb went off. Slightly embarrassing.

Did I mention that we saw Avicii DJ at XS Nightclub? Because we did. And it was amazing.

Also, Saturday night was the night that my other shoe broke while dancing. I hobbled around for the rest of the night, but it was worth it.

Ah, to be young.

EVA♥

10 Things for Vegas

Posted on March 20, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hey everybody!

Happy first day of Spring! I’m celebrating by flying to Las Vegas this Saturday for a girls’ adventure. While in the midst of packing, I thought I would put together my own little guide for the perfect Vegas weekend getaway. I’m afraid my tips as to what to pack are directed solely at the ladies, because, well…I am one. Let’s begin with:

10 Things You Must Bring with you to Vegas:

Inappropriate shoes. And by inappropriate, I mean bring your highest, biggest, most glitter-encrusted ridiculous pairs of shoes. Yes, pairs. I chastised myself once for bringing multiple, complete outfits for one weekend, but my many options came in handy when one of my shoes broke in the lobby of the hotel right as I was leaving. Be prepared, ladies.
Dresses. Now is the time to wear all your summer sundresses (for the daytime), and bust out your slinkiest cocktail dress at night. Preferably in the brightest colors you can find.
Swimsuits! I also find options helpful here, as you definitely want to take advantage of the lavish pools and day clubs many hotels on the strip have to offer. If your dream is to pull off an itty-bitty bikini, now is the time.
A sarong, or beach cover-up. Bring something stylish and colorful to throw on top of your suit to and from the pool. Because, let’s be honest, the trek from your room on the 30th floor of the Mandalay Bay to the pool outside takes 20 minutes.
Sparkles. Ladies, bring all your fun gems along for the trip. Break all the rules. Wear your bejeweled watch and earrings and a necklace and all your bracelets. And rings. There are no rules here.
Makeup. A no-brainer. But I’m not just referring to your everyday makeup. Remember that ridiculously neon coral lipstick you bought? Bring that. Oh, and that glitter eyeliner you wore for new years? That too.
Eyelashes. It’s not often that I sport the fake ones, because they feel more costume-like on me than anything, but why not?! Grab those rhinestone eyelashes from the drugstore and apologize to no one.
Adult refreshments. If there is room in your suitcase (or your friend’s suitcase, for that matter) BYOB. I’ve heard the cautionary tale of the $9,000 bar tab. It’s just not worth it!
Snack. Grab a few little snacks: granola bars, crackers, anything! I highly recommend a few packs of instant oatmeal. It’s easy to make and nutritious, especially when you just need something quick to sustain you in the morning and don’t feel like paying $40 for a breakfast buffet.
Ibuprofen. Or, as I like to call it: I-Be-Broken. Just in case you have too much of a good time.

10 Things to Do in Vegas!

Pool time. Pool time. Pool time. Where else in the world can you bask at a fake beach or slide on a water-slide through a shark tank?!
The Bellagio Fountains. Possibly my most favorite “show” to stop and oggle on the strip. Both beautiful and fascinating to watch; a great opportunity for photos as well!
Buy a drink the size of your arm. Because where else is this socially acceptable?! No where. It doesn’t matter that half-way through it you’re going to feel ill. It sure is fun to carry around.
Play the penny slots. I’m not much of a gambler, so this is perfect entertainment for me. I play them in slow-motion and try to get the eye of a cocktail waitress in the meantime. Remember to tip them well!
Clubbing. Las Vegas is home to some of the most ridiculous, over-the-top clubs in the world. Even if it’s not entirely your cup of tea, go! It makes for some good people watching and will provide you with some stories to tell your grandchildren when they’re older. The kind of stories that prove you were a cool kid, back in your day.
Treat yourself to a fabulous dinner. I highly recommend Red Square, in Mandalay Bay. If you’re young and on somewhat of a budget, keep an eye out for Happy Hour deals. Eat well and enjoy.
The Botanic Gardens at the Bellagio. For a bit of nature in Vegas, visit the Bellagio. They change their displays according to season, and they’re always spectacular to see.
The Chandelier in the Cosmopolitan. Where else can you have innovative cocktails inside a lavish, multi-story chandelier. It’s absolutely on my to-do list for the weekend.
Shopping. You can find everything here. If you’re looking for more high-end, I recommend Crystals at the City Center. The architecture alone is something to see- I also swear that they pump Viktor and Rolf’s “Flowerbomb” perfume in through the air conditioning. Another great alternative are the Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace, with a little bit of something for everyone.
Jump on the bed. You heard me. Do it. You’ll be in a fabulous hotel (hopefully with spectacular views of the strip), what have you got to lose? I do this every time I’m in Vegas, usually from sheer excitement. The world is your oyster- jump on the dang bed!

10 Things NOT to Do in Vegas

Don’t. Tattoo. Anything. Just don’t.
Impulsively buy bottle service. A co-worker of mine once had to sell some stock in order to pay his ridiculously large tab. Because buying a bottle of Kristal at 2am will sound like a good idea. Don’t do it.
Keep your shoes on. Ladies, this one is for you. I’m usually a staunch supporter of keeping ones shoes on, at all times. But you also need to know when to admit defeat. I once had a girlfriend who insisted on keeping her heels on all night, and could not walk the next morning because the balls of both her feet were giant blisters.
Don’t accept those cards people on the street are handing out. Do it once, and you’ll see why.
Abandon your friends. Keep the buddy system going, because someone will always need you to tell them when something isn’t a good idea. And, you’ll be happy the next morning when your friend kept an eye out for you.
Jaywalk on the Strip. Do you want to die? This is a city that has built pedestrian bridges for a reason.
Don’t forget to drink water. Lots and lots of water. All that walking around on the strip can be really draining, especially in that desert sun. You’ll need your energy with all that fun you’re having.
Go to the pool without ID. For all the 30-and-under crowd, there is nothing more infinitely frustrating than being turned down when trying to buy a beverage. Don’t ask me where to put your ID in your bikini, just make sure you bring it along.
Pay $17 for a well cocktail. I’m talking to you The Bank at the Bellagio. That’s just absurd. And the only thing that will make this OK is if my cocktail comes with a solid gold straw. Or $8 cash back.
Walk through the casino the morning after, if you can help it. I’m not sure who thought this was a good idea, but the combination of bright lights, cigarette smoke, obnoxious electronic dinging, and a hangover makes for the definition of cruel and unusual punishment.

As always, make good choices everyone!

Love,

EVA♥

A 20-something’s Guide to Alameda

Posted on March 14, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone and happy Friday!

I’m sure many of you can agree with me when I say it is somewhat anti-climactic to return to your childhood home following your college years. Although practically born and raised in Alameda, I’ve found this town to be quite different from what I remember as a child. To put it lightly, the things you do for amusement at seven are quite different from the things you do for amusement at 27. Now armed with a bank card, a driver’s license, and no curfew, I’ve spent that last few years re-discovering my hometown. While a bit of a “sleepy town” in the shadow of a big city, Alameda is home to quite a few gems. I’ve put together a quick list of my favorites today, and hope to elaborate a bit more as time goes by. Let me know if you find this helpful, dear readers, as I’m hoping to continue on with a guide to my favorite places in the whole East Bay as well.

Breakfast/Coffee Time!

Blue Dot Cafe & Coffeebar. For the most delicious chai lattes and scones.
Cafe Jolie. Amazing eggs benedict and breakfast with a French twist.
Julie’s Coffee and Tea. Choco-chai. Need I say more?
Jim’s On the Course. Good, old-fashioned breakfast with a view
The Beanery. In the Alameda Markethall
Little House Cafe. A bit of charm for your day.
The Red Onion. Delicious eggs and waffles.
East Ocean Seafood. If you’re in the mood for Dim Sum…

Lunch!

Yellowtail Japanese Bistro. For the freshest sushi lunch around
Jay’s Coffee, Teas & Treats. Fantastic sandwiches, wrapped up in a bow.
Jonathan’s Sandwich House. Your mom & pop sandwich shop. Owned by the loveliest family.
House of Bagels. Home of my favorite veggie sandwich.
Sushi King. The best take-out sushi of all time. Also fantastic for dinner.

Dinner!

Dragon Rouge. Waterfront Vietnamese food. Delicious
Burma Superstar. Can’t recommend their Rainbow Salad enough! Beware of the long lines!
Five Guys Burgers. When you have to have a cheeseburger.
Scolari’s. For late night, grab-and-go dinners. Don’t let the size fool you!
East End Pizza. In the Alameda Markethall. One of my newest favorites! Delicious thin-crust pizza.
King of Thai Noodle. My favorite, inexpensive Thai restaurant of all time. Have been known to come here over a fancy dinner elsewhere.

Drinks!

Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge. I’ve celebrated many birthdays (and Mondays) here. Not a bad drink on the menu.
Lucky 13. For a no-frills glass of beer.
The Hobnob. Fantastic truffle fries to accompany any cocktail
Habanas. Home of my favorite happy-hour, and delicious mojitos.
Rock Wall Winery. Alameda’s very own winery on the historic naval base
St. George Spirits. A distillery unlike any other. Take a tour!
La Penca Azul. Anytime a margarita is necessary. Don’t miss their $8 bottomless mimosa Saturdays!

Have a good weekend!

EVA♥

5 Things

Posted on March 12, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone and happy Wednesday!

Do you ever have those kind of weeks where you feel like you have so much to do, but nowhere near enough time to do them? I’m in the middle of one of those weeks right now. I am desperately trying to tie up all my loose ends well in advance, but with my plans constantly moving and changing, I find it hard to focus on just one task at a time. One thing that I so enjoy about blogging is that it forces me to focus on whatever I might be thinking or wanting to write about at the time. I try to get from beginning to end in one sitting, as often as I can. I have a horrible tendency to over-think a lot of the work that I do, so it’s very liberating to sit and “crank out” the work that I can, without too much intense scrutiny from yours truly.

With all that, let’s get to my five things of the week! I could also rename this: “Things I Saw This Weekend,” but where’s the fun in that?

(Miss Moscow Mule and Lady Greyhound had a night on the town. There may have been some disco pants involved.)

(Nothing makes a late-night walk home simultaneously more pleasant and more difficult than the smell of freshly baked donuts. Delicious.)

(It’s starting to feel like spring! Admiring the blooming tree-lined streets on my way to Alameda Beach.)

(Oh, yeah. That’s why I live here. Look at that spectacular view! Impressive even on a cloudy day.)

(Am mildly obsessed with this song cover by the lovely Lily Ahlberg. Pause it, play it…)

Love,

EVA♥

Celebrating 20 Years and One Month

Posted on March 3, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello ladies and gentlemen!

This last weekend has been so hectic, today feels oddly like a Sunday. I’ve gotten all my necessary cleaning and errands done, and finally managed to have a bit of time free to write a recap of the last two days. In short, it was filled with ballet.

Saturday was ultimately a “work day.” I use captions here because, having worked in an oppressive corporate office for one year, my Saturday workday can be qualified as the least work-like day ever. I began my day teaching the little ones (as usual), and followed this with a quick run to San Francisco Dancewear in the East Bay to pick of a pair of pointe shoes that I had ordered. I then returned home to get ready for the highly anticipated Smuin Ballet 20th Anniversary Gala. 20 years! And I get to work for them! (On a sidenote: this is a ballet company I clearly admire above others, so I was beyond thrilled to be a part of their big anniversary gala). Held at the San Francisco Design Center, and boasting a beautiful set up, I arrived just in time to catch a bit of the dancers rehearsing prior to the official start time. I primarily assisted in getting the 300+ attendees registered and set up for the silent auction. It was fairly straightforward and some of the best people watching of the night, which honestly distracted me at times. For the most part, everyone was beautifully and impeccably dressed. But, I must say that blue eyeshadow and glitter eyeliner does not and should not fly after the age of 11, and is never black tie appropriate. Aside from that faux pas, I saw some gorgeous Valentino and Alexander McQueen little numbers. I admired a woman who had let her waist length hair go naturally silver, topped it with a black fascinator and delicately beaded cap-sleeve bolero. I want to be as stylish as her when I’m older.

Following the silent auction, there was a performance featuring a little bit of everything Michael Smuin, dinner was served, a live auction was held, and the night ended with the live band playing and an open dance floor. The evening meal was provided by McCalls Catering and consisted of a spring pea gazpacho and ceviche starter; braised short ribs on a bed of barley risotto; and a little flourless chocolate cake-thing topped with raspberry sorbetto and chili sauce. I tell you all this because it was delicious. I had to dash out early to meet a friend in another part of town, but the whole evening was so lovely.

The front desk, a view of the main stage, and Allen, the boss man. He’s officially the Patron Services Manager, but more friend than anything. I considered it part of my duty to provide him hugs when it looked like he was too stressed. He in turn insisted that I drink additional glasses of wine when I was done working. A good boss.

The view from my workstation. (My apologies for the awful computer glare)

Let me preface this by saying these did not both belong to me, and yes, this is still my workstation. Alternately: this is how everyone’s desk should look at the end of a successful day at the office.

Some of the fabulous auction prizes: Shannon Hurlburt’s tap shoes, a signed Smuin Ballet sweatshirt, the now Artistic Director’s signed pointe shoes, and copious fine bottles of wine.

The radiant Erin Yarbrough and Josh Reynolds performing a pas de deux from “Frankie and Johnny;” making it look easy. This was one of my very favorites. I’m also going to take this moment to say that she trained me. That lovely lady right there. I know her, and am a big fan.

You know you’re at a fancy event when the bathroom sinks are filled with gardenias. It smelled amazing, but I believe everyone felt guilty running the tap over these delicate things.

What I wore! In the bathroom! There never seemed an appropriate time to ask anyone to take a picture, so I snuck a quick one in. I insist on being fully independent, so you get to look at my phone in every picture that I take of myself. Sorry!

Illuminated tulips served as the centerpieces to every table- very unique.

This was all just one evening; my Sunday consisted of some additional celebrations, namely my mother’s birthday and our attending a San Francisco Ballet matinee together. I promise I will elaborate later on this week. I would also like to take a moment and acknowledge my 50th post on Watch Me Juggle! I blogged every single weekday of February, and with this post, I’ve finally made it to number 50. It seems like no time at all, and I fully intend on continuing to post everyday! Thank you all for reading up to this point, and thank you for all your wonderful support. I would have never thought that I could write about my life and have so many people appreciate it. It’s really a great feeling.

Lots of love, from me,

EVA♥

It’s the Little Things

Posted on February 26, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone!

I’ve been contemplating as to whether or not to change my “Five Things” series to “It’s the Little Things.” Or does this sound too Hallmark Channel family special? You will have to let me know.

Looking back at this last week’s photos does make me quite happy- it’s been a good, busy week. I will admit that I truly enjoy being busy, but only if I’m busy with things that I truly enjoy. That makes sense, right? I’ve been dancing quite a bit (rehearsal in the mornings, class in the evenings), writing, studying, reading, and the other day I even made my own pasta sauce! From scratch. I’ve been feeling quite a bit like this little girl, lately. Complete with the cheerleading moves.

(Beautiful antique cocktail glasses I was gifted for Christmas. Am searching for a special occasion to use these.)

(An Earl Grey macaroon from Feel Good Bakery. Complete with a latte from Blue Bottle. Perfection.)

(My last Valentine’s truffle. White chocolate strawberry. So cute.)

(My favorite study partner. A cup of Choco-Chai from Julie’s Coffee & Tea in Alameda. Topped with homemade whipped cream.)

(Hey look! It’s three drinks instead of two! Tropical mojitos at one of my old haunts: Habanas. My friends and I have such fond memories here.)

Happy Wednesday!

Love,

EVA♥

Five New Things

Posted on February 19, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone!

It’s Wednesday, and you know what that means: Five Things. Today, with a twist. Featuring five new things from this past Valentine’s weekend. I admittedly almost published this post moments ago with only four things on it. Wednesdays are occasionally hard for me. Between writing and brushing up on my middle school math (that’s over 10 years ago, everyone) my brains are fried. I’m a dancer, after all. We only count to eight, and then we start over. Just saying.

(Yellow roses: brightening up my room and work space as I type.)

I’ve been eating all of the emergency food out of my cupboard lately, and forcing myself to be creative with recipes. I’ve been making crepes quite a lot lately- it’s a breakfast that’s incredibly simple (in terms of ingredients) and feels indulgent. I’ve also been enjoying drinking my morning coffee out of my Valentine’s mug from Target. I’m not entirely sure why the cup of tea is so keen on using coffee puns, but whatever floats your boat.

I announced to my good friend Rachel: “All I want for Valentine’s Day is take my shoes off and have a margarita.”

We somehow ended up at Chevy’s and it was fabulous.

(An awfully festive San Francisco city hall. We have the best looking city hall. Hands down.)

(The sign outside of Thirsty Bear Brewing Co. in downtown SF. Clearly in the spirit of romance.)

Happy Wednesday everyone! Now go forth and do exciting things!

Love,

EVA♥

Valentine’s Day: An Excuse to Eat More Chocolate

Posted on February 3, 2014 by 4evamaria

Ah, Valentine’s Day. No matter what we call you (Single’s Awareness Day, S.A.D, just-another-Friday) you’re a day of high expectation. If you’re happily coupled your partner better put on a good show: thoughtful gifts, reservations at your favorite restaurant, etc.

A quick tip:

Gentlemen: avoid the joke card. Avoid it like the plague, it never goes over well and is confusing, at best.

Ladies: buy yourself that thing you really wanted. Jewelry, flowers, whatever! Don’t wait for someone to come along and give it to you. It’s how I ended up with these lovely things. And, if you’re me, find someone who appreciates you enough to deserve this gem. Thank you, Allie Brosh.

Back to the subject at hand: disregarding my relationship status, I’ve made it a Valentine’s tradition over the last few years to look fantastic, get together with some friends and do something indulgent. Now, I’ve noticed there are plenty of sites out there suggesting date night ideas, typical pink-and-red events crawling with besotted couples. But, fear not, dear reader. I have put together my list of things to do on Valentine’s day. For those of you looking for something a bit…different.

(A Pixie and A Drunken Ballerina)

One of my favorite choices for the evening has to be American Cupcake in SF. This place is all kinds of wonderful/ridiculous. And, yes, if you were wondering, the caption above denotes the drinks pictured. The Pixie involves champagne, violet liqueur, and pixie stix. The Drunken Ballerina is simply champagne, jazzed up with some massive sprinkles, with a ballerina on top. These are flanked by a cotton candy and bubblegum cupcake. For those of you with less of a sweet tooth, they also serve dinner, and have whimsical “flights” of either beer or wine accompanied by mini cupcakes.

Should technicolor sweets and drinks not be your thing, never fear. Here’s a list of foolproof combos to make any Valentine’s day special:

Your favorite Hole-in-the-Wall + Latest horror movie

The local pub + Board games (in my case: The Hob Nob and Cards Against Humanity make for a fun night!)

The Trashy-on-Purpose Bar + … (Let the games begin!)

If you’re in the SF Bay Area, I highly recommend Butter. This place has everything: drinks served in paper bags, fried food, and 90’s television.

A Microbrewery + Burgers & Fries

An All-American choice. Lucky 13 in Alameda has a big place in my heart, and with a quality burger from Scolari’s next-door, you can’t go wrong. For a slightly healthier option, venture to Beer Revolution in Oakland and grab a Southern fried tofu sandwich at Souley Vegan.

…and

If all else fails, crack open a bottle of champagne, bake some cookies, and play hostess. Nothing like a good group of friends to make an evening special.

Ladies: Be sure to wear those crazy, man-repelling things you own as well. All of them. At the same time. I won’t judge you.

Love,

EVA♥

Five Things

Posted on January 30, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello All! I must say, I’ve missed my “Five Things” posts. I write to you from the comfort of my home, sipping a big cup of PG Tips tea. Just so you know, I take my tea like I take my coffee, I’m afraid: strong, dark, and with lots of cream and sugar.

(Delicious tea in my favorite mug. I may no longer be in Hawaii, but I sure can pretend.)

Another one of my favorite teas has to be Republic of Tea’s Ginger Peach black tea. I drank it in abundance growing up, and, when my parents left me in Santa Barbara for college, a big cup of it was the one thing that made me feel instantly at home.

(It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Maddie! Someone can’t hold still long enough for me to take a decent photo of her. She will also lick you to death if you’re not careful.)

Speaking of feeling at home, my new favorite doggie seems to be very happy in her new home with my good friend Rachel. Despite the fact that Madeleine is her brother’s (now roommate’s) dog, I think she likes us best. Maybe.

(Sushirrito. Is it sushi or is it a burrito?)

Ladies and gentlemen, you are looking at the Geisha’s kiss. Tuna, avocado, cucumber, tomago, and a variety of vaguely Mexican/Japanese ingredients make this creative thing. I highly recommend, so do check it out next time you’re in SF and in the mood for a culinary adventure.

(The Brooklyn, at Dogwood in Oakland)

Before anyone asks, that is a homemade brandied cherry on a stick. Bar Dogwood is this week’s “new-to-me” discovery. It’s small, cozy, and serves some of the best/fanciest grilled cheese sandwiches ever. I ate it before I could take a picture of it, and the tiny pickles it was served with.

(My idea of fun on a Saturday)

Yes, I am breaking in a new pair of pointe shoes. In my house. I have quite bit of sewing/doctoring to do, as these are not the maker of Freed I usually wear, and they’re a bit on the narrow side. But, there’s nothing to make you feel more accomplished as a dancer than beating a pair of shoes to a pulp, busting out a new pair, and starting over.