Debbie does Hollywood

Debbie Harry is the coolest. I can't articulate it any better, and I don't think I really need to. I love seeing her mug in my city. Even if these are from before I was born...

That gum you like will be coming back into style.

While I was away, this happened. I was on my way to get groceries and I heard someone yell "Hey Hollywood!," with a comment like that I had to look and there was my Twin Peaks moment.The Man From Another Place, also known as Mike is one of the best dinner dates alive. We spent the entire time talking about Quantum Physics and he gave great life advice. Only in Hollywood I tell ya.

A View From The Top

The largest home in California, former home to Aaron Spelling. This Mansion has 127 rooms and can park 100 cars underground!

The Hollywood Reservoir

Last week I got to do something I've never even thought about doing-fly in a helicopter around Hollywood and Beverly Hills! It was amazing-much more fun than I ever expected, you feel like you are inside of a bubble. I didn't get too many pictures because I really wanted to take it in, but I have a feeling this will not be my last time in a bubble.

Weird Hollywood

Friday night I went to an amazing book launch party at Boardner's for "Weird Hollywood." The place was filled with Hollywood's most original characters and the people who love them. There was music and the whole party felt more like a huge performance art installation than a book launch.I know it's cliche to say "Fellini-esque" but that's a pretty good description, or maybe "Lynchian" is more fitting (as in David Lynch). Either way, it was hands down one of the most surreal nights I've ever witnessed. My favorite new friend was Count Smokula (pictured above), he's a very talented musician and one of the funniest people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. So, if you want to delve into Hollywood's weird side, I suggest you buy the book-because it will take you there.

Buy the book HERE

Candid Camera?

One funny thing about going out in Hollywood is that someone always takes your picture, and you get to find it later. I happen to like this because I am the worst about taking pictures these days.

Techincal Difficulties and Jesus.

I've been seriously lagging at posting lately, but on the flip side I've been having some fun in Hollywood. For example, I went to Pride a few weeks ago and saw Jesus. The thing I love about this guy is that he is everywhere in Hollywood. And because he looks like Jesus everything he does is comical. Like "Oh look Jesus is eating a burrito," "Jesus is on the bus," " Jesus is talking to Spiderman." I've always been tempted to just start taking sneak shots of him, but then I'd just feel weird. He's a nice guy that Jesus.

Dearly Departed @ Larry Edmunds

Saturday was record store day, but I went to a bookstore. Larry Edmunds bookstore to be specific. They are now the official launching point for the Dearly Departed Hollywood tours, which are all about Hollywood and death. It was awesome to see the presentation from Scott Michaels, the founder. His brain is so full of Hollywood trivia that all I can do is listen and learn. I bought two DVDs from him and have already watched both-they are great and are highly recommended by me! Check out his website Findadeath. And if you are in the area of Hollywood Blvd check out Larry Edmunds, they have a huge selection of hard to find books on the entertainment industry as well as Hollywood in general. They are also the place to go if you are looking for vintage movie posters or glossy 8x10's . It's a great store run by nice people, and the Dearly Departed family is equally amazing.

Magic Castle

So, you aren't really supposed to take pictures inside the Magic Castle, so this is all I could do. The basement and the outside...but it was amazing! I love Invisible Irma, and she thrilled us by playing everything from Billie Holiday to Lady Gaga, with a little Queen thrown in for good measure. The magic was hilarious and skillful. The whole place is a beauty to stare at for hours, and I can't wait to go again. They had amazing fries with truffle oil and their gin gimlet is lethal. Something I learned while at the Magic Castle was that they are responsible for the dancing ghosts at the Haunted Mansion, hence the sign in the top picture. It was a great way to start my birthday weekend!

Open Sesame!

I'm going to the Magic Castle tomorrow! This is a total dream come true! I've wanted to go from the moment I heard about Invisible Irma and the secrecy of the place, so excitement doesn't describe the way I feel right now...it's more like Christmas Eve and I'm five-but squared. I will be sure to take lots of pictures (if I can?).

The Frolic Room

Last Thursday we set out a little too late to really see the Art walk Downtown, so we came back to Hollywood and went to the Frolic Room. I've been wanting to go there forever just because of the great sign outside, and I'm so happy I did. The drinks were delicious, stiff and priced well ($6 for a Cuba libre,half the price of a standard drink in LA). On top of that the jukebox played all the goodies:PIL, Roy Orbison, and Dwight Yoakam. The upholstery is red vinyl and there's a mural of all the Hollywood's Golden age of stars. Not to mention they had the fastest, coolest bartender in town. Oh yeah, and popcorn-delicious popcorn. What else could you want? I know everyone says it, but I'll say it again:This place is the best!

Mummy Party

Robert and Korey
Me, Korey and Emily

Emily,Me, Robert and Rio (one of the stores owners)

Friday night Beauty is Pain on Highland in Hollywood had a smashing party.....everyone went all out and there was some dancing, drinks and a lot of fun!