How YOU doin’? The Friends Experience: The One in Phoenix is now OPEN! As an avid fan of the series, I can confidently say this lived up to ALL of my expectations! I invited Patricia to come with me to the media preview, and we had SO much fun! Here is just some of the fun you can have, too!
The experience features 12 nostalgia-packed rooms, including Monica & Rachel’s apartment, Joey & Chandler’s apartment and of course, Central Perk!
You can relive so many iconic moments like Ross’ “PIVOT” moment, sing “Smelly Cat” with Phobe’s guitar or wake up Ugly Naked Guy with the giant poking device!
The space is “Monica Clean” with lots of health and safety protocols in place!
There’s also an onsite retail store with exclusive products available
Tickets start at $30.50, and private access tickets are also available for groups of up to six or 10 guests!
The experience runs from February 24-May 8 2022!
Thank you SO much to everyone at The Friends Experience: The One In Phoenix for hosting us and for being so kind, gracious and patient with all of our pictures! Patricia and I took tons of pictures, and here are just a few. Cheers and if you are a “Friends” fan, this experience is highly highly recommended!
THE Couch!
PIVOT!
Joey & Chandler’s Apartment
Monica & Rachel’s Apartment
“Could I BE wearing anymore clothes?!”
“Smelly cat, smelly cat…what are they feeding you?”
A favorite new show that I discovered during the pandemic is Emily in Paris on Netflix. Well, I didn’t really “discover” it in that it was brought to my attention by more than one friend or family member. I’ll get into a whole blog post about that show later, but I did want to talk about an exciting event I recently attended, which is highlighted in one of the episodes.
In episode 5 of season 1 of Emily In Paris entitled “Faux Amis”, main character Emily, her neighbor Gabriel and his girlfriend Camille, all go to an exhibit in Paris called “Van Gogh, Starry Night”, organized by L’Atelier des Lumières (which is no longer on display). As they walked in, Van Gogh’s “The Starry Night” was blown up and projected on all the walls of the gallery. What I loved about that exhibit is that it looked like they were inside the painting, a part of it or surrounded by it. I had no idea it was a temporary showing, so any plans of going to Paris in the future to visit said exhibit were dashed very quickly.
Due to the popularity of that episode and exhibit, Van Gogh immersive experiences started to appear all over the US and Canada over the past year. Luckily, the first one I saw coming to the Arizona area was attended in Chicago by the star of Emily in Paris herself, Lily Collins: Immersive Van Gogh.
Note: For my friends in San Diego who are going to the Van Gogh exhibit there, it’s presented by Beyond Van Gogh, which is a different immersive event.
The moment tickets went on sale for Immersive Van Gogh, I immediately purchased VIP tickets for myself and my family. More recently, I had the honor of being invited to the VIP cocktail grand opening and ribbon cutting in what is listed on the website as the Phoenix, Arizona location, which I attended with my friend Susan (Styles Revealed). It was presented by Lighthouse Immersive and Impact Museums, at Lighthouse Artspace in Scottsdale.
After the ribbon cutting ceremony, we were treated to a presentation, led by Show One Productions founder, Svetlana Dvoretsk, who partnered with Starvox Entertainment to bring Immersive Van Gogh to life. During her presentation, she mentioned that one should not be shocked if you have an emotional reaction to being immersed by the imagery of Van Gogh’s paintings and the musical accompaniment. After walking around and pausing to take in what was happening, that deep connection between the images and music happened for me, leaving me a bit breathless. I later shared my reaction with Svetlana when I saw her walking around the exhibit, and she was not surprised!
I’m not sure if it’s my background in the arts, or my absolute love of music that brought about that emotional reaction, but it was definitely moving. I have read reviews that this is such an “Instagrammable” presentation, and that it’s so watered down compared to seeing Van Gogh’s actual works up close and personal. I have visited museums like The Louvre in Paris and The Norton Simon Museum of Art in Los Angeles, seeing great works of art, including Van Gogh’s, in a more “appropriate” gallery setting. But seeing his art in this newer context, moving all around me in time with beautiful music was quite a different sensation (visual presentation by Massimilaino Siccardi and musical presentation by Luca Longobardi). It was even more fun when I returned a week later with my family. It was lovely to be with my husband and son, experiencing art differently, allowing for the interest to take root. Dominic is drawn to Asian art, particularly Japanese art and was immediately taken by Van Gogh’s own versions, asking if he actually traveled to Japan.
Another criticism of the exhibit stemmed from the lack of additional information about Van Gogh, that the images were presented without context. I would have to say to anyone attending Immersive Van Gogh to do your own research, which is what I did. I watched several documentaries about Vincent Willem Van Gogh, soaking up as much information about his mindset, travels and relationships. I enjoyed one from 2010 called Painted with Words, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Van Gogh. It detailed the artist’s story through many letters he wrote, especially to his beloved brother Theo. In fact, as you walk into Immersive Van Gogh, there is a room filled with mirrors etched with excerpts from some of the letters he wrote over the years.
I also watched the 2018 film At Eternity’s Gate, starring Willem Dafoe, which depicted Van Gogh’s isolation, revelations and sorrow. I wanted to know more about the artist before attending because I wanted to get a sense of where he was, both physically and mentally, when he painted his works. And to answer Dominic’s question about whether or not Van Gogh had been go Japan, the answer is no. He painted them mainly in French countryside, but was so moved by the light and color, that he felt it would be similar to how it would be in Japan.
In retrospect, what I believe what this exhibit offers is the power of reflection. You have hints of who Van Gogh was, and there are images of his most famous and familiar works. But I think this space was designed to overwhelm your senses through sight and sound, maybe to feel how he felt in the countryside, in Arles and Saint Remy de Provence. In recalling the documentaries and the movie At Eternity’s Gate, Van Gogh had a desire to paint, to get out what he was feeling. He thoughtfully painted with brightness, light, and color. Maybe there was an overwhelming feeling of fading away, and he counteracted that notion with bold strokes, movement and dark rich color in his paintings. In his childhood, I discovered he was actually the second child to be named Vincent Willem Van Gogh (who died as an infant), and he was overwhelmed with the notion of being insignificant and irrelevant at the start of life, not being able to live up to his predecessor. This feeling followed him to his untimely end, never getting to see that he became one of the most significant painters of all time.
And that’s what I take away from this exhibit. Sometimes we can get overwhelmed, but we allow that to channel in different ways. How will you experience Immersive Van Gogh?
Immersive Van Gogh will be at the Lighthouse Artspace (4301 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251) now extended until March 13, 2022! Tickets range from $39.99 to $49.99. There are also Date Night and VIP packages available.
(Additional notes: Covid-19 precautions are definitely taken with masks encouraged, sanitation and socially distant circles to enjoy the exhibition. Rental cushions, stools, and chairs are also available.)
I have felt so lucky to have met some amazing people, designers and artists since moving to Arizona. After having lived in California for so long, I wasn’t sure how I would acclimate to my new home state, but I feel like I’m truly doing very well out here, trying to live my best life, as the saying goes!
I’ve had the opportunity to go to several fashion events out here, and at one of these events, I met the folks behind a great new local clothing company. Frankie Pina, owner of Arizona Life Apparel, was born and raised in Arizona and wanted to create a clothing brand that would celebrate everything he loves about his home state.
When thinking about Frankie’s passion for Arizona, I wanted to have a photo shoot somewhere unique to where I currently live, like the Chandler Museum.
Speaking of budding artists: My son Dominic took all of these amazing photos!
Outfit: AZ Life Flag Tee (Black/White) c/o Arizona Life Apparel; Izod jeans; Ash sneakers (no longer available); Zeelol glasses; Mesh Coffee Watch c/o Capitola (with discount); Marc Jacobs Saddle purse
FTC Disclosure: I received the product in exchange for a product review. Although I did receive product, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.
(Post title: Lyrics from “Rainy House Nights” by Joni Mitchell)
Life can take you through many changes, and my family has gone through several in the last few months. It’s been awhile since I’ve posted because of those changes, which includes a move to Arizona! Yes, you read that correctly, my family and I have moved to Arizona, Chandler to be exact!
I’ve actually been to Arizona three times in my life, two include trips to Downtown Chandler due to a management training with a company I worked with previously. It’s quite funny because we now live a stone’s throw from the very hotel I stayed at in Historic Downtown Chandler. In fact, my husband and I recently attended a wedding of friends we used to work with in San Diego, and the two people who I attended the training with both asked me if I went back to Murphy’s Law, where we went quite a few times during our stay! During our first week in Chandler at the beginning of August, my husband, son and I had a late dinner there after furniture shopping, and I had the Bangers & Mash again, which was as delicious as I remember!
The reason we are now living in Arizona is because my husband got a fantastic job in Tempe, an opportunity he just couldn’t pass up. Prior to leaving San Diego, my husband and I discussed several places to move, and we settled on Chandler due to its proximity in “The Valley” (which includes Metro Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa and Scottsdale), and also due to affordability. Even with the heat (the highest was 118 degrees when we arrived), you really just can’t beat the cost of living out here in Arizona. A big bonus is that Dominic’s school is walking distance, which makes for easy mornings!
I will admit, I miss San Diego very much. In fact, I’ve already been to San Diego twice since we moved out here (back-to-back weekends). But I am finally getting acclimated to the heat, which I’ve heard has been the hottest in a long while here. Aside from the heat, I’m enjoying getting to know Chandler. It has grown so much since I was last here nearly 10 years ago, and I’m allowing myself to get a little lost here with the confidence that my GPS will always guide me back home.
If you still follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, you’ll see my adventures have pretty much involved food, and a little shopping. I hope to soon include more fashion and events here in Arizona. I’ve got some catch up posts from when I was still in San Diego, but I will be back on schedule with weekly posts. One of our first big concert adventures here in Arizona will be at the Comerica Theatre to see Nine Inch Nails. Although I’m thrilled to be seeing NIN with my husband and son (a first for each of them), I’m so very excited to finally see The Jesus and Mary Chain, a favorite of mine since the 80’s.
Stay tuned for all of our new adventures and thank you again for following along. Cheers!
Back at it again, and I’m catching up on events as it’s been quite the busy few weeks! If you follow my blog regularly, then you will know that my husband, Deon, is not just a fan of golf, but he is an amazing golfer as well, winning eight amateur tournaments. Every now and again, we get the chance to attend a professional golfing event, and this year our first one was the LPGA Kia Classic in Carlsbad. Deon’s favorite golfer is Paula Creamer, but we missed her as we attended the second to the last day of the event. We ended up following Brooke Henderson and Lydia Ko for the bulk of the time we attended and we got to see Michelle Wie get interviewed after her round was finished. Check out the amazing picture Deon captured below!
The tournament took place at Park Hyatt Aviara Golf Club and made me appreciate my hometown even more because I feel like I’m discovering time and time again that San Diego is simply one the prettiest cities in the world. It was lovely to walk around with Deon as he is so knowledgeable about the sport, and he’s definitely in his element when he’s on the course. Here are some pictures I took at the event, and I know you’ll agree that this course is absolutely gorgeous, as was the day. Cheers!
Lydia Ko and Brooke Henderson
Until next time Kia Classic!
(That’s Deon walking on the left in the striped golf shirt)
Our complimentary custom caddie bib t-shirts: Of course Deon chose the Paula Creamer shirt and I opted for Lydia Ko
Rather than Tuesday, Dominic and I had tacos on a Sunday! While out and about just before the Thanksgiving holiday, we had lunch at Senior Taquero in Sabre Springs Plaza. The menu is very straightforward, with so many items to choose from! But we stuck to our favorites: rolled and street tacos. I had the shredded beef rolled tacos topped with lettuce, salsa fresca, guacamole and cheese. Dominic came a little bit out of his comfort zone by having birria tacos (shredded beef short ribs), which comes with salsa fresca and guacamole, much to his delight!
We can always count on our 8-year old to be open and honest about what he likes; not only did he order an additional two more tacos, but he gleefully said, “Mom, we have to come back here, my tacos were so good!” There you have it, out of the mouths of babes, Senior Taquero is a must for tacos anytime!
Senior Taquero is located at 11385 Poway Rd San Diego, CA 92128 and they can be reached at (858) 668 -2467. They are open seven days a week from 8am to 10pm, and you can skip the line by ordering ahead online at their site here.
Cheers!
Shredded Beef Rolled Tacos with lettuce, salsa fresca, guacamole and cheese
Birria Tacos with salsa fresca and guacamole
Dominic approved!
FTC Disclosure: I received compensation to patronize a business at Sabre Springs Plaza. Although I did receive compensation, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.
It’s that time of year for ghosts, ghouls and goblins of all shapes and sizes to celebrate! In honor of Halloween, here are the pictures we took at LEGOLAND® California’s Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights a few weeks ago. Did you attend? Let me know in the comments below and have a safe Halloween!
My sister, husband and I accompanied Dominic and Me-Lin for a truly spooktacular night!
The candy stations were a big hit!
Loved the music all throughout the park, including the “Rock Band” above and the live music on stage at the Heartlake City Fall Festival below!
All kinds of creatures and creepy characters were lurking around the park!
The day is finally here: DEPECHE MODE’S “GLOBAL SPIRIT TOUR” AT MATTRESS FIRM AMPHITHEATRE!
I believe the show is sold out, but there are verified tickets still available on Live Nation. I have the Live Nation app and I’m taking advantage of the “Fast Lane” Upgrade, since I have lawn tickets. This will allow me, my sister and our kids to get some prime real estate at the front of the lawn area next to the railing.
Keep up with me on my Instagram for all of my concert coverage and I’ve created a separate section here on my blog of all of my Depeche Mode posts!
Is it really that time of year again? Why yes it is! Every Saturday starting this weekend until the end of October, LEGOLAND® California presents Brick-or-Treat Party Nights!
“Awesome Awaits at the Park…after dark! Brick-or-Treat Party Nights at LEGOLAND®California Resort is back for more Halloween excitement. The entire Park is open for Party Nights Saturday September 30, and every Saturday in October. The home of Halloween fun is filled with…
Live entertainment + new shows!
Character Meet and Greets
Costume Contests: Group, LEGO® Theme, Most Creative
Treat stations with more than 1 million pieces of candy
Heartlake City Fall Festival with Pumpkin Patch Build and craft time with the LEGO Friends
The AstroBash Dance Party
Brick-or-Treat Party Nights Pop Badge Challenge
And more!
Plus, don’t miss candy, decorations and your fishy friends at SEA LIFE® Aquarium included with your Party Nights ticket.”
So much is happening at the LEGOLAND® California Resort in Carlsbad that I had to get my sister and photographer, Rholnna, to help capture it all. Along with Brick or Treat (more information in a future post), here’s the lowdown on what’s happening at LEGOLAND® !
THE LEGO® NINJAGO® MOVIE LEGO NINJAGO Days
To celebrate the new LEGO® NINJAGO® MOVIE , you can Join your favorite ninjas – Lloyd, Jay, Kai, Cole, Zane and Nya – by tapping into YOUR inner Ninja at LEGOLAND Parks LEGOLAND Discovery Centers!
(Click the picture above for more details)
The LEGO® NINJAGO® Days Schedule
LEGOLAND Parks
LEGOLAND California Resort (Carlsbad, Calif.): Sept. 23-24
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dates
Arizona: 9/23-9/24, 9/30-10/1,10/7-10/8
Atlanta 10/7-10/9, 10/13-10/15
Boston 9/23-9/24, 9/30-10/1
Chicago 9/22-9/24, 9/30-10/1
Dallas 9/22-9/23, 9/29-10/1, 10/7-10/8
Kansas City 9/23-9/24, 9/30-10/1, 10/7-10/8
Michigan 9/23-9/24, 9/30-10/1
Philadelphia 9/22-9/24, 9/29-10/1
Westchester (Yonkers, N.Y.): 9/22-9/24, 9/29-10/1
CASTLE HOTEL PROGRESS
Earlier this year, Rholnna attended the ground breaking of the new Castle Hotel at LEGOLAND® . She recently attended the press conference for what’s upcoming in 2018, so below is a combination of pictures from the ground breaking event back in January and the progress so far!
January 2017
September 2017
LEGO® City Deep Sea Adventure
At the press conference this month, the LEGO® City Deep Sea Adventure was introduced and Rholnna captured a few pictures announcing this exciting new upcoming ride!
“LEGOLAND® California Resort’s General Manager Peter Ronchetti announced at today’s press conference that 2018 will be a year of enormous growth! In January, a new 4-D movie launches, followed by the opening of LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel in the spring and, just announced, LEGO® City Deep Sea Adventure submarine ride is opening in the summer! LEGO® City Deep Sea Adventure is Merlin Entertainment’s single largest investment in any LEGOLAND® Park and will take passengers aboard a real submarine where they will be submerged underwater and immersed in an ocean habitat.”
(All photos from the Castle Hotel ground breaking and press conference taken by Rholnna Jiao)
