State Bliss Blog

20 Things Every Californian Can Agree With

1. Sometimes we need seasons, but are all secretly afraid of the cold

As fall arrives in California, the western skies grow golden at twilight. The weather is just warm enough to wear a beautiful dress, but just cool enough to fashion up with a cardigan without sweating to death. Fall is our new favorite season... until summer comes back next week when it's 90 degrees again.

2. Legalizing marijuana is essential

I mean, Tommy Chong lives here. Why oh why are we not yet in the ranks of Colorado and D.C.? Roll on November 8th!

3. We never need to go on holiday outside of the state

You want snow? Hit up Big Bear. If it's surf you're after then go west for no more than three hours and there ya have it. Romantic getaways in Napa. Hiking trips to Sequoia. City breaks in San Francisco. Silent beach-side towns on the Central Coast create a chance to unwind. If you want it baby, we got it.  

4. We're happy because of all the Vitamin D

Feeling down or a little blue? Get your butt outside and soak into that natural antidepressant. If this doesn't work then refer to #2 and #20. These are a guaranteed pick-me-up!

5. Fuck. Traffic.

Yes. I'm looking at you Greater Los Angeles. You're the worst!

6. We're bored of seeing celebrities

I am not sorry that I stole a table from Tom Hanks. I am not embarrassed that Tim Robbins caught me picking my nose. Richard Cabral, I remember when you were a non-speaking part in horror movies. Patrick Fabian, just remember me when you're winning your Emmy! (Sorry for chasing you through Griffith Park, Jenji Kohan).

7. Drinking beer here is waaaaaay overpriced

Apparently you can get a pint in Detroit for $3. What the actual WHAT?!

8. Our seafood is better than your seafood

Try and prove us wrong. We dare you. Clam Chowder. Scallops. If you're not looking to break the bank, just grab a $2 taco on the beach. It'll change your life!

9. Palm trees never get boring

JUST LOOK AT THEM!  

10. Don't even talk to me if it's about the 405. DON'T EVEN TALK TO ME!

I told you once...

11. Hollywood is actually Hollydive

It's dirty. It's smelly. It's full of weirdos dressed up as our heroes. The clothes are cheap. The tourists are a nightmare. The pizza is AMAZING.

12. We have Republicans here, but they're beyond the Orange Curtain

Most of us don't venture down there, but it still exists.

13. We invented “Dude”

Like, dude... whatever. Dude.

14. There is no point in going to visit family, because they will all have more fun here!

Seriously. Who isn't happy in this perfect place?

15. Every sunset is the most beautiful sunset

Case and point:

[Bike] riding off into the sunset. #tropical #paradise #venice_sunsets 🌴🌦🚴🏻💕

A photo posted by Venice Beach Sunsets (@venice_sunsets) on Sep 28, 2016 at 7:14pm PDT

16. San Francisco is hella good

Flight over Sausalito and its Marina✨ by @sashastories

A photo posted by San Francisco And Beyond 😃 (@sanfrancisco) on Aug 20, 2016 at 12:58am PDT

17. Los Angeles is legit

We hope everyone had an awesome day! 📸 Photo by: @thelightrecord. Chosen by: @artbyart_la Thanks for tagging #uglagrammers 🙏🏻 #losangeles #summer #Losangeles_city #ig_color #moodygrams #cbsla #nbc4you #abc7eyewitness #caligrammers #royalsnappingartists #way2ill #california4fun #worldcaptures #ig_today #ig_daily #ig_brilliant #earthpix #instagood #photooftheday #ig_daily #instagramhub #jj_california #exklusive_shot #socal #fartoodope #igmasters #ig_exquisit #illest_shots #theImaged #instagood #ig_color #losangelesgrammers

A photo posted by Follow 🏫 #UGLAgrammers (@losangelesgrammers) on Sep 22, 2016 at 7:31pm PDT

18. Keep Santa Cruz / Venice / Humboldt weird

Thursday is the new Friday...dreaming of that ocean & chill vibe. Photo 📷 | @nickvisconti #VisitSantaCruz - #SantaCruzNow - #SantaCruz - #Beach - #GoodMorning

A photo posted by Santa Cruz County (@visitsantacruz) on Sep 29, 2016 at 9:12am PDT

19. Earthquakes aren't cool or fun

They aren't predictable either. Take it from a geographical scientist who has dated a handful of geologists, you cannot predict an earthquake. We are not 'over-due for the big one', we just know that there might, probably, be a mega earthquake somewhere here in the future. It's called forecasting. We're forecasting our destruction, but it's chill.

20. Pitbulls are the best!

F U Montreal!

A few months ago, I was able to travel to Monterey State Beach in Monterey, CA. Of course the beach itself was amazing, but what caught my attention was the little shopping district right alongside the beach called Fisherman'a Wharf. It was full local seafood restaurants, pubs, grills, boutiques, etc.

As I was walking down the street, I noticed a kind of a hole-in-the-wall winery that barely stood out because of a sign, otherwise I think I would have missed it. There were several restaurants holding wine tastings, but I'm one for trying things that are a bit far from ordinary. The hosts of that day's wine tasting was Bargetto Winery, located in Soquel, CA.

Now, I've only been emerged into the wine tasting world for about two and a half years; most recently, this past year, I have been able to travel to some of the best wineries throughout California that I used to dream of going to as a child. The more wine I've tasted, the more I've come to the conclusion that white wines and fruity wines are my absolute favorite! I was able to try their fruity wine list and one red wine, which was rather tasty.

One thing Bargetto Winery is know for is their Chaucer's Mead. Interesting fact about mead is that it's techinically made by bees! It's considered a Honey Wine that is fermented and is one of the oldest alcoholic beverages in history! Did you know that?!  I personally have never heard of or had that before, so my eyes lit up with wonder and curiosity as the host poured a glass for me.  In fact, I had several glasses poured for me.  Don't judge. Apparently mead is usually consumed in small amounts, but clearly I didn't get the memo on that.

 I just had to try all of the fruity flavors.  The top three flavors were Peach, Raspberry and Plum. Man oh man did they taste good. After an eventful time at the tasting, my partner and I joined their membership (which is free) and only had to pay a very affordable fee for them to ship our bottles to my home back in SoCal. When you sign up for their membership, you basically get 2 bottles for $12! Pretty good deal in my book, I'd say.

So, if you ever find yourself in Monterey, hit up their beach, walk around Fisherman's Wharf for  a little bit and then go straight to the wine tasting room. The sign will be hard to find but just look for Bubba Gumps Shrimp restaurant and Bargetto Winery wine tasting will be right across from it.  Walk in and enjoy the laid back atmosphere and the friendly hosts who will give you their honest opinion about each and every flavor and can tell you a good bit about the history of Bargetto Winery.

If you'd like to learn a little more about the winery, here is their website: http://bargetto.com

7 Questions Every Angeleno Gets Asked

1. Where do you live?

Yeah, this does sound like a stupid question but locals of Los Angeles know the importance of this one little query. If you're new to town, make sure you're specific. It could result in determining your future ex-spouse. For example, if you live in Venice and they live in Studio City then you best be in true love, because no one enjoys the 405 at rush hour even if there is sex at the end!

2. Where are you from?

Meeting a born and raised Angeleno is rare unless you also live in the sprawling county. It took me six months to meet a non-transplant. However, this question also has some bizarre undertones. It can help you decide the politics of the person you're asking. It can also let you figure out how much you might have in common from your childhoods. Being raised in rural Pennsylvania in a huge property versus the suburbs of Detroit, or even further afield, could lead to some pretty interesting conversation.

3. What do you do?

Yet again, this is such a benign question to the unknowing non-local. In a city based on entertainment, with every bimbo looking to bang their way to the top, this question often comes before all else. However, it is not to be taken as an investigatory assault on your character. It is a beneficial tool for both of you involved in the conversation. Networking, relationships, friendships, and common connections are all divulged from this one little question.

4. What's your star sign?

Even the atheists of Los Angeles have been converted to this line of questioning. Though it may or may not have any impact on one's personality, you'll be freaked out by how many patterns arise from your acquaintances that share the same sign. If you're a Scorpio, you're built for others of your kind, Pisces and Sagittarius. However, you should avoid Leos at all cost! You'll clash like the titans and destroy everyone in your wake.  

5. Are you vegan?

Only joking! They'd have already told you...

6. Do any celebrities live near you?

This is a relative question. You could say YES, I live by this producer or that professional surfer, or you could say NO. Some of these people aren't actually celebrities, they're just individuals that are highly successful at their jobs. Other may just have a lot of Instagram followers!

7. Is it anything like it is on television?

No. It's EXACTLY what it's like on television! Even into the intricate personal weaving that you might think only existed on The OC or 90210, every part of Los Angeles is exactly what it's like on television. If you're a Hank Moody, then head over to the westside and enjoy all of the wonders that the beach has to offer. If you're more of a party girl then head to West Hollywood and and Beverly Hills. No matter where you are, the craziness of California will follow. We can promise you that! 

It may seem unknowing to most; but there is life outside San Diego. North county is often overlooked and it’s time we shed some light on what everyone’s missing.You will soon find that Encinitas, Leucadia and Cardiff-By-The-Sea all have something unique to offer. The city of Encinitas embraces the California lifestyle. It’s a great little surf town with a bunch of little shops and a variety of restaurants. Park your car and take a stroll along the 101 and see what this little town has to offer. Did we mention It’s a very dog friendly place and filled with positive vibes and people who respect their community and love to be involved.

*Cardiff-by-The Sea Top Spots* Cardiff is the southernmost part of the city Encinitas.

Cardiff State Beach - Tan where the locals do

Las Olas - Best house margaritas & famous fish tacos if you are in need of authentic mexican goodness. It's located on the 101 with a clear view of the pacific ocean.

Kraken - If you’re into a “divey” fun time with affordable cocktails. A popular spot since the mid 70s, always good for live entertainment & a game of pool. San Elijo Campground – Great place to camp with the whole family, pitch a tent or park your camper. It’s a 2-mile stretch on

San Elijo State Beach & popular for swimming, surfing, snorkeling & picnics.

Self Realization Meditation Gardens - A very peaceful magical place to decompress, heal your soul & connect with nature in all of California. The views are beautiful.

*Downtown Encinitas Top Spots*

Moonlight State Beach - Tan where the locals do

Seaside Bazaar - Every Saturday or Sunday little market with clothing, jewelry, & unique vendors.

101 Diner - Great little breakfast or lunch spot located in the heart of Encinitas.

Lobster West - Go to if you're craving some clam chowder or Maine Lobster.

Bier Garden - Fun spot for dinner or for drinks with 32 different local beers on tap.

Solace the Moonlight Lounge - Great vibe & decor, & most importantly happy hour oysters.

Shelter Bar & Lounge - Great ambiance if you want some Encinitas nightlife.

URBN - Must go to pizza spot if you are a pizza lover. Make sure to order the mashed potato pie.

Union Kitchen & Tap - Fun lively bar that is always warm & inviting. Every Thursday is $5 mule night. Great weekend brunch spot with friends.

*Leucadia Top Spots* Leucadia Is a coastal community that is part of the Encinitas which is a little more artsy and unique, a bunch of little shops, and beaches. Leucadia State Beach - Tan where the locals do

Farmers Market - Held every Sunday (10am-2pm) the market offers a great variety of local options & vendors.

Le Papagayo – Fusion Mediterranean food with great vibes & small plates. Happening place with live music every night.

Solterra Winery & Kitchen - Nice relaxing spot for a glass of wine & happy hour 7 days a week!

Hapifish Sushi - Check it out of you want to leave with “happiness.” A real laid-back beach vibe and a yummy California sushi cuisine.

Fish 101 - Known as a traditional west coast fish house with a little unique twist.

Priority Public House - Gastropub type of place with live music & tapas’ tuesday.

Sake House Yu Me Ya - Tiny hole in the wall place with sushi, that not many know about unless you are a local.

Leucadia Donut Shoppe - Amazing yummy donuts, the shop is covered in stickers you can’t miss it.

Juanitas Taco Shop - Little taco spot. You know it's good Mexican with there’s bars on the windows. Carne Asada anything is a must.

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