Lotto Lotto | 23

(photo taken: December 27, 2014)

My family has gotten me hooked on buying lotto tickets, scratchers, whatever you wish to call them! I remember when I was about to turn 18, I was really looking forward to buying lottery tickets on my own! But for some reason, I didn't buy them until 10 months later. 

This day we had gone to the movies, (referring to Milton and I). I believe we watched Top Five and that movie was pretty lame! We were debating if we should leave because it wasn't interesting. We ended up staying for the whole thing and the end was pretty sweet! So we headed to Starbucks after the movie and that's where we saw a Lotto tent in front of Starbz (yes, I say Starbz). It was my goal that before the year ended I had to buy a lotto ticket myself! So with four days to spare, we decided to buy one. But that's when we noticed they had a promo. If you purchase $20 of tickets, you get a chance to spin the wheel and win $1 tickets with four or five tickets being the minimum! We decided, why not, let's go crazy! But we ended up splitting it half and half. It ended up being pretty great, me winning $27 by the end of the night! I felt lucky and pretty happy! 

Since we enjoyed it and we thought it was a good deal, we asked when they would be back. That's when they told us they'd be there almost every weekend. And that's the beginning of everything! We started going every weekend, buying tickets, winning, loosing, being angry, being excited, ending up with little dirt on our jeans. I usually split half with my mum, I rarely buy the whole $20 because you know, hashtag broke life! Milton would go crazy! I remember one time he bought a $20 ticket and he won so he kept going back to buy more and more. He reminds me of my dad, my dad gets too excited when it comes to lotto scratchers and the casino! Yes there's been times where I don't win anything, but hey at least I only spent $10! 

(photo taken: March 16, 2015)

After a while the lotto people stopped coming so we calmed down on the "addiction". But you can imagine our excitement when we were walking around Little Tokyo and came across this little market with a wall FULL of winning tickets! One entire wall, completely filled with different types of scratchers, and different prizes ranging from the minimum about $30 up to $500 maybe even more! And this has become one of our favorite spots to just chill. It's a mini mart and they sell pretty much everything there! So we buy a box of mochi for ourselves, buy a ticket and then sit at the tables and just enjoy some free time! 

Buttt, now they're back! So you know we're gonna be saving at least $20 for the weekends to come! And if you wanna check it out too, go online and look for the schedule. It takes place at L.A Live, and all I know is that they'll be there every weekend until December, so far. So go online to: http://www.calottery.com/happenings/events/la-live and why not go for it! So far I've been having good luck, but it doesn't always stay like that...and I think I just jinxed it! But it's a great time, especially since it gets dark soon. We really enjoy it this time of the year because by the time we go, it's dark, we buy our tickets, we get coffee, and just chill there! If you do go, take your I.D just in case (18+) and also, remember to play responsibly! 

The Counter | 22

(photo taken: December 16, 2014)

As said in previous post, here's a review on The Counter! 

I had previously said that the food was good, but I would recommend it for people who enjoy eating a variety of things on their burgers. Just because you're going to be paying the same price for a regular burger instead of making your own...make sense? The fries are delicious, pretty thin but really good! Btw, this one is located downtown *7th between Flower and Hope to be exact* And what you see there is not ranch, it's RANCHUP made by Milton! Really good, both on the burger and fries!

Hopefully you're able to see the menu! But I got pretty plain stuff, nothing too extravagant, but it was still delicious! They give you an actual menu of things that are already prepared, and this is what you fill out when you want to create your own burger! Let's see if I remember what I got...

I ordered the 1/3 lb., 100% natural chicken breast (if you've been keeping up, you'll know why I always choose chicken burgers)! And let me say the chicken breast is really good, feels and tastes great biting into it! And I went with the brioche style bun! For cheese I think I went with Yellow American, for sauce I might have gone with smoky chipotle aioli, toppings I went with lettuce blend, fresh jalapenos, and sliced avocado! Lastly for my side, I chose shoestring fries! 

So everything is described with detail, but if you look at it, it's pretty simple! I don't remember what Milton got, but for him it wasn't what he expected it to be, I think he was kind of let down. For me, I wasn't necessarily let down, but since I don't like too much on my burger it's not something I would go for. In my honest opinion, I would much rather pick Smashburger than the counter! But you know, this is one of those places I would like to go to once I'm 21 and watch a game and get a drink or something (which I think would be a virgin margarita cause I don't like alcohol). I'd still recommend it to people. It's not bad, I mean it's still in business for a reason, and people enjoy going there. I admit there was a little too much hype for it. 

Overall, really good if you go for the chicken breast. Extra good if you choose avocado because it makes the perfect combination! Now thinking of it, I'd want to go back just to try the salad style in a bowl! Thinking of it, it's probably just like a bowl you can get anywhere else, and since it's The Counter, it makes sense to get a burger! Check it out guys, nothing wrong with it! And then check Smashburger and decide which you prefer!   

Christmas in Disneyland! | 21

(photos taken: December 13, 2014)

I had always wanted to go to Disneyland during Christmas! One, because it's the happiest place on Earth and two, Christmas is the best time of year so no doubt it would be beautiful! I felt lucky enough to have gone to Disneyland twice last year, gradnite and in December! I remember Milton asking me if I wanted to go to Disneyland for his birthday and I was beyonnnd excited! This kid, makes life fun and is always surprising me! 

I remember we had to leave early and meet up Downtown to catch the 460 there, it was actually pretty fun! It didn't feel like a long time, it did get cold though. Milton went a bit more dressed up with his bowtie, me I just looked like an average girl at Disney. I remember seeing a Disneyland worker get on the bus, I was just thinking maybe that could be Mickey or Goofy and we don't even know we're riding with him! 

I got even more excited because I knew I was going to be adding memories for us, but also adding Christmas trees to my "Christmas tree challenge". Getting off I was getting even more excited! As soon as we walked in we saw Pluto and Chip and Dale and took pictures. Yep, I was definitely feeling it already! Christmas in Disneyland, probably the best thing there! Our first stop was going to Starbucks and my God, they knew adding a Starbucks there would get them even more money! Long lines even though there's many workers. I wanted to get a Mickey cookie...but I didn't. Surprisingly throughout the entire day, even night, I didn't get cold. I was fine with my long sleeve and boots. But as soon as we left the park and were walking towards the parking lot we definitely felt the cold! 

Because I already wrote about Gradnite previously, I feel I'm going to get mixed up as well, so let me think before I start typing and having to erase everything! This was the first time we bought popcorn there because the smell was so scandalous! And yes the popcorn was delicious! Churros were also good, but popcorn takes the lead! We got on rides and we took pictures wherever we'd see characters! I was so upset I couldn't get a picture with Minnie! *heartbreak* But I got as many as I could! We were getting hungry and we decided to leave the park to eat at McDonalds, but before that we saw everyone sitting on the sidewalk. And that's when we heard from other people that the parade would start in about half an hour. We were at a good spot so we decided to stay there and might as well watch it! 

 I'm not gonna lie, I wanted to cry throughout the parade! It was super cute, so Christmasy, so adorbale, and it was my first time being there for this holiday! Everyone was there, so many dance numbers, like HSM in Christmas! And then towards the end of the parade, I saw from a distance reindeer, and I knew what was coming. Big man, Santa Claus was coming to close the parade!!! *crying emojis* And yes just as expected, the tree was first, the reindeer in the back doing their dance thing, and then followed by SANTA CLAUS! And yes, that's the moment in which I felt more emotional! I don't know, I'm a wimp, I've always loved Santa Claus and always got so excited whenever I'd see him! I was able to catch his attention (I think) because he waved at me! Yup, my day was made! 

Ohhhhh, so if you guys remember from my Gradnite post, or if you haven't go check it out, I talked about getting on the Tower of Terror and how terrifying that was! So this time we got on the roller coaster in Toon Town. Yes I know that's not a crazy ride, but I forgot how it felt so I was pretty nervous! The only feeling I got was when it went down and it does the curve, but besides that everything was good! We decided to get on it again, but Milton asked if we could get the front seats and the guy put us there. I was even more nervous now because the front is supposed to be where you feel everything. I started getting a bit anxious, but there was no turning back because we were already being buckled down. It didn't feel horrible, it actually felt a good rush! 

Another good ride was the teacups! I did get pretty dizzy and I felt I was hallucinating at some point, I guess cause of the spinning and all the lights! But I enjoyed it, I think we got in line again! We were looking around in the shops to hopefully buy something. I saw a few things I wanted to get, but I thought it would be too soon, maybe next time! We knew what time the fireworks show began so we thought getting there half an hour before would be good. Ohh hell no, I don't know why I would think like that, because by the time we got there EVERY spot was taken! And it got really annoying because there was this couple saying we got their spot, like no this was a free spot not our fault you're super short, the guy trying to be all tough and the girl "giving attitude". But we ended up finding a good spot and we saw the fireworks! 

The castle looked even more beautiful, of course because it was decorated! Another moment in which I got emotional! That's where I just put my phone away because I wanted to really enjoy the moment and take it all in! It was just really beautiful and I'm so thankful we went during that time! One thing that really annoyed me was that once the fireworks ended, we all had to start moving so the path wouldn't be packed. And of course everyone is trying to take pictures so it takes a bit of time. But this "man" had his child and a baby in a stroller and he started cussing, yelling at people to move and just being rude. We're all trying to move, it's frustrating, but c'mon now. You're at the happiest place on Earth in the most beautiful season, with your kids, and now you're gonna be yelling crap? Someone kick this guy out! We ended up leaving soon because we were getting picked up. But boy did I enjoy it! It was something different, a great adventure, and definitely worth it! It was a great way to kind of spend the holidays, and great memories! 

   

Smashburger | 20

(photo taken: November 9, 2014)

Yes, I'm coming at you with another food place/review! This one happens to be Smashburger, the one at L.A Live! So sit back and get ready to be hungry and have a watery mouth!

DISCLAIMER: I was sooo close to missing another day! I missed yesterday because by 10ish I was dying of sleep, don't know why. But I'm backkk! 

I remember this as a great evening spent because we went to the theaters (maybe it was a Kevin Hart movie, maybe I'm wrong) and afterwards Milton suggested we go try this burger place. Burgers, yeah I'm down for that! I chose the Avocado Club (hamburger) and ohh lawd was it bomb! It comes with "fresh avocado, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, ranch dressing and mayo on a multi-grain bun"! *thank you smashburger.com* I think the total comes out to $11, for a combo, but it's worth it! The patty tastes really good, probably maybe even real meat! lol Bacon, always crispy and the avocado, well you know avocado makes everything great! The fries are pretty good as well, they're skinny hey, size doesn't matter! 

I think this was also the first time that I saw those round things they give you in restaurants and it vibrates when your order is ready. I was so amazed, and I kept checking to see if the food was ready. I thought the vibration would be like a phone, pretty quiet. No. That can wake uo someone next door! So no worries about missing it! 

Bottom line, really good! We were actually planning to go there tonight...but we didn't. However, we did go back for Valentine's Day, and once again BOMB! It didn't let me down, so it's worth trying it! Some people, such as my mum, would say that all burgers are the same and no burger is special. Well I'd have to take her here to change her mind! I think what makes it really good is the fact that the burger patty tastes legit, like if there's no artificial meat in there...The reason why I always choose chicken burgers over the regular burgers. I've had bad nasty experiences so I stick with chicken. And yes I know chicken can also be under cooked or raw or whatever, but it hasn't happened to me that's why I still eat them! 

Soon I'll most probably have a review on The Counter *also located downtown* and I think I spoke about The Habit in my Santa Barbara post. The Habit and Smashburger both taste great! The Counter, that's more for people who enjoy eating a variety of stuff, because you build your own burger, add whatever you want to it! The burger I chose (at The Counter) was probably an ordinary chicken burger *except I added jalapenos*. More about that in a future post!

But for now, like the previous blog, if you haven't tried it, you definitely should! They have separate menus for both hamburgers and chicken burgers so that's a bonus! And the people there are so nice and helpful. They'll give you honest opinions, they'll help you out if it's your first time there, and they make sure you choose the right thing without paying more for something simple! Definitely worth the try, don't be like me scared of trying new things! 

DISCLAIMER PT. 2: I'm sure I won't get comments on this *secretly hopes for comments* but I think if I talk about restaurants I should see if they have things for vegetarians, or other options, right? I'm not sure who exactly reads these posts, but maybe someone is interested in healthier options, so I'll start to look out for that. And I think I just answered my own question. 

Egg Sluttt | 19

(photos taken: November 2, 2014)

I'm not sure if there's other EggSlut locations, but this one is located in the Grand Central Market (you're welcome). Well first off, I want want to say that I love that little mercadito! It's so cute and the fruit stands I feel really give it that Mexican feeling, along with the candy and seeds and peanuts stands! But I feel lately there's been other businesses opening up and it's just taking away the Mexican feeling. Like yes it's still there, and I don't want to sound racist or anything, but there's more white people with their vegan or their organic stuff. I feel those things at el mercadito don't really go together. All Mexican food is delicious and yes unhealthy, but that's how it is. So this is one of those places that I was mad about. Everyone deserves a chance to open up their own place, but I feel it's not the same anymore.

My best friend Laura (heeeyyy gurrrl), was the one who took me here for my first and only time because I haven't gone back! Not that it's gross or I didn't like it, but I ALWAYS eat tacos de carnitas when I come here, and it's always from the same spot! But anywho, we always have trouble deciding where to go, she had come back home for a few days and I was lucky to have seen her during that time! She told me of this place, I hadn't tried it so we decided, why not!

Let me tell you, and Milton out of everyone should know this because we're always eating: I don't really like trying new things...especially when it comes to food! Just recently having a sensitive stomach, I don't like taking the risk and not knowing how my body will react! So I was a little scared about trying it. When we saw the menu and I immediately laughed because "SLUT" was on the menu...yes I'm a child. We ended up getting the Bacon, Egg & Cheese...

Ohh yusssss, I'm getting hungry just looking at the picture! It's "hardwood smoked bacon, over medium egg, cheddar cheese, and chipotle ketchup in a warm brioche bun" *courtesy of eggslut.com* Like I said, I'm not into new food, everything sounded good except for the medium egg. Like no, I like my eggs scrambled! But I didn't wanna seem too picky so I just went for it, and ohh lawd! It was sooo amazinnng! *thank you Laura* My mouth is watery at this moment no joke! The bacon is just really delicious and crispy, when you bite it you can feel the egg explode and then you have the cheese, and you have the CHIPOTLE KETCHUP! I thought it sounded weird but it tasted so good! However, I got it on the side instead of having it inside *I always get dressings on the side because I don't want it all over my food if it's not good!* But ohh gosh, this was such a great meal! We ate there at the little booth which I was happy about it because I love booths!

For dessert we tried some ice cream that I believe their first store was opened in Santa Barbara, so that's what it's called. I don't know the story, but it was also really good! I chose strawberries with something else, not sure...

I guess it was strawberries and cookies and cream? Really good although a bit pricey for the amount they give you. But seriously, thank you Laura for introducing me to the (Egg) Slut! *no slut shaming* If you guys haven't tried it, definitely worth going for it! I don't think you guys would be disappointed. I mean, the girl who's pretty picky and has a sensitive stomach enjoyed it and survived! So that should be a good thing!  

Day of the Dead | 18

(photos taken: November 1, 2014)

DISCLAIMER: Last night I wasn't able to post anything. I had an annoying headache, it got worse just by looking at the screen. My fault.

Coming from a Mexican background, I feel proud to be part of this culture that celebrates the dead in a beautiful way. I would love to spend the day in Mexico, just to see how they celebrate it. I've heard stories from my parents, and I've seen videos, but I want to actually experience it. 

The day is celebrated on November 1st for Los Angelitos, all the children who have passed away, and November 2nd is for everyone who's passed. Mexico celebrates big. Cemeteries are cleaned and altars are made. Altars have photos of the person who has passed away, their favorite food, snacks, drinks, toys (for the children), basically anything that the person enjoyed. The altars are also filled with flores de muerto, which is a bright orange yellowish flower, it's petals spread around. Sugar skulls are also placed, along with pan de muerto, and blankets and pillows so the dead can rest throughout their journey. People bring bandas or mariachis to the cemeteries, it's a day to remember those who are no longer here, and feel as if they are sitting there with you. 

People also make altars in their house, like we do. And ever since I was a kid I always found it fascinating, but I was a bit frightened when I learned what it was. The way I would see everything placed, I thought I would see a ghost coming into our house and eating the food, drinking, being there. Until my mum explained what it meant. There's a belief that the dead "consume" the food, so even if you eat it, the food won't have any flavor. Don't ask me, I've never tried it!

People also celebrate by doing a dance with shells around their ankles and hands, the shells or the sound you hear is supposed to wake up the dead. The dancers usually paint their face as calaveras. Another tradition is similar to trick-or-treating. Kids dress up, usually as the dead, and go door to door or ask anyone passing by for a "calaverita" (this can either be candy or money). And of course many prayers are said and candles are lit, respecting the dead.  

It's kind of our tradition, aside from making altars at home, to go to La Placita Olvera on these days. Or prior for the novenario. Grand Park also recently started to place altars throughout the park. At La Placita you will be able to pray, you will be able to walk around with a big group who are there for the same reason, walk around the little shops. There are many altars which you can actually put up, or you can just see the ones that are up. Examples of the altars there consist of children who have passed away, immigrants who lose their lives coming to the U.S, families, Las Mujeres de Juarez, which if you don't know the story you should look it up. It's women who have been missing for years now and they are never found, or they are found dead, and treated in horrible circumstances. And some altars are also for dogs, cats, any pets! You stick around for the dance which is quite entertaining, if you're lucky they will pull you to dance with them. And be careful because La Llorona is always around creeping up behind people, and before you know it she's screaming "Ayyy mis hijos" in your ear! It's pretty funny seeing people get scared, when it's not you! And at the end you can probably get conchas and champurrado!

It's a great holiday, something really meaningful behind the whole thing! And if you haven't experienced something like those activities I mentioned, you should definitely check them out! One of my favorite "muertos" from La Placita is a bride and the groom, dressed up for the wedding, very elegant, but of course with their faces painted like calaveras, or a mask. There's also little kids dressed up as them, a lady who holds her dead baby *not an actual dead baby* in her arms, and of course the loud La Llorona just waiting to scare people! I remember when I was probably 8, I was invited by one of them to go on stage and dance. Obviously you don't need to know how to dance, it's just to have a good time! And you can take pictures with them as well. Ohh wait, I remember last year we went there was a new addition, it was a muerto dressed as a high school (maybe college who knows) graduate. It gave me the chills, but I guess that's the point of involving different characters because you don't need to be old to die. I see this country every year is slowly starting to celebrate it more. You see sugar skulls and other related things in stores, when years ago you wouldn't see as much. I don't know why my mum claims I don't like to go, I do enjoy it. And since it is coming up, I recommend you guys check it out! 

Norwood | 17

(photo taken: October 22, 2015)

Last year I decided to volunteer at the elementary school I went to, and it was probably the best decision I made! I ended up helping out with a teacher that everyone in my family had, except for me. So it felt great, being back in that school, helping out with kinder, and being with that teacher! 

The months I was there was great, despite the fact that there would be a whole week I wouldn't go *disappointing* I think the thing that made it more wonderful was the fact that it was kinder! Those kids were some smart little munchkins! They were my kids, especially 2 of them! I began in September and I left in April for stupid Subway. But the teacher and the lady in the office kept telling me I was always welcomed back. 

I guess you can say I had my favorites, because some were so obnoxious, but in the end they all made me smile. I would do learning activities with them, and towards the end I went with them to field trips which were really fun! I was scared, having to be responsible for my own group. I thought I'd lose the kids, or my mind. I would go to recess with them and to lunch, the cutest moments would be when they colored some pages and gave them to me, I still have them. 

I was so excited for Halloween! I made little candy bags for boys and girls, and I ended up leaving that day with so many candy that they gave me. They all looked sooo adorable, I was happy to be a part of the Halloween parade! Most of the girls were dressed as Anna and Elsa (one 'n' or two?), and the boys were dressed as superheroes. My kid looked adorable because he has a Charlie Brown face and was dressed as Batman. Since the chest part is always so inflated, he just looked adorable! 

I was sad when Christmas break came. I didn't think I'd actually miss the little kiddos! I wore my Santa hat and we all just watched movies that day. During lunch I ended up taking selfies with them. My favorite thing was hearing them sing Christmas songs, and what I learned from them was what Mele Kalikimaka meant. I was having so much trouble trying to pronounce it that I was impressed when they were able to sing it correctly. Catchy song, I ended up singing it all throughout December! Coming back from Christmas break I was so happy! 

Valentine's Day was another great thing. I took cupcakes and before I left all the kids came to me giving me Valentine cards and candy! Those moments definitely melted my heart. Like when I came back in January and everyone would scream my name and come hugging me! Or when I'd miss a few days and when I'd finally come back they'd ask me why I left and that they missed me. Lies or not, that made me feel warm!  

I was happy I finally got a job, but I was sad because I was leaving the school. I didn't tell the teacher until it was a few minutes before lunch. And before they all lined up he told them that it was my last day. Even the teacher was upset but happy for me. They all came to give me a big hug and all at the same time said "THANK YOU MS.ZULEMA" witht heir little high pitched voices, my heart was melting!!! I took them to their playground and they all said bye and hugged me and I was about to break down. I made it back to the classroom and said I would try to come back whenever I could. Milton went to pick me up and when he hugged me...I began to cry! Yesss it hit me hard because I was attached to the kids, even though I wasn't there full time but I was going to miss them. No other thing than working with those little kids that brought a smile to me, aside from when they would try to act up! We were leaving and I saw them by the gate and they all came running as well. They also knew Milton because he came along with us to the zoo! 

I went back on the last day of school and in less than 2 months that I wasn't there, I felt they all grew up. One of my kids' teeth had fallen out, one of the girls' hair had grown so long and beautiful, they were all soon going to be 1st graders! Emotions, feels, all over the place again! Which is why I wonder why I haven't gone back! The motivation for me to start school is that me being enrolled in school will give me an opportunity of working as a TA there. I miss the little kids, I miss the activities, the holidays, the drawings, they're so adorable and so smart they shocked me sometimes! I remember on the days we'd have subs, they all asked if I was a paid worker. When they found out it was because I liked it and I was volunteering, they seemed shocked. Well yeah, you don't really see something like that now a days, a 19 year old giving up their free time to be with kids. It's just something I love, and I feel the time I was there made me love it even more! 

Let me tell you one thing. I think that one of the greatest things in life, at least for me, is being  called "teacher". They all had trouble pronouncing my name at first, like always. I was first called Ms.Zulema and I got warmed up with that. But the day I got called "Teacher Zulema", my life was made! It was such a great feeling to be called that, I felt like an actual teacher and I felt honored they called me teacher! I guess because it's my "career goal" and because kids, at least that age, look up to their teachers as like heroes or role models. Many great things happened, and many things made my heart feel warm, but that was probably one of the first things! I hope to be back soon and get to know the new kindergartners, and hopefully see some of my kids around the school as now first graders!