To be totally honest, overlooking the calendar was inadvertent. Knowing myself as I do, I probably would have said “too much” and I am so glad that didn’t happen. The weekend started out at the Hollywood Bowl, just the perfect summertime venue. We savored an evening of music and film clips from the great composer John Williams, creator of such diverse movie music as Lawrence of Arabia and Schindler’s List. But it was the Stars Wars theme that brought out a slew of light sabers in the audience. Seth MacFarlane was an added delight to this wonderful program; the audience still didn’t have enough even after four encores.
The actual anniversary started out with a family brunch at trendy Brentwood Country Mart’s Farmshop. This place is totally fit for foodies, but the service left a lot to be desired. Nevertheless, the people watching was excellent and the food was very good. Still haven’t made it to one of LA’s best ice cream destinations — also at this locale — and that would be Sweet Rose Creamery. From what I hear, that is worth the trip in and of itself.
 |
| 28 and counting … so far, so good. We’re gonna keep going. |
I arranged an LA sleep away/stay-cation at the newish Ritz Carlton located downtown at the L.A. Live Complex (Staples Center, Nokia Theater, multiple restaurants). Marriott pretty much owns this area of Los Angeles with no less than four of their brands on adjacent streets. This blue building is downtown’s latest high rise and it is just stunning, visible from all over as one approaches this part of town.
The Ritz itself has just over 100 rooms while the J.W. Marriott below is 900+ and is geared more toward the convention business. The upper floors are the private residences, many of which are occupied by professional athletes. Maybe it was the Amex Platinum booking, maybe it was a slow weekend, or just maybe they were charmed by the hubby, but whatever it was resulted in an unsolicited upgrade to a 1,200 s.f. suite! Thank you to the hotel gods for arranging this is all I will add.
 |
| Not sure anyone cares (about me being in residence), but nice touch |
 |
| Photos of the gorgeous suite |
 |
| Our room view of L.A. Live |
 |
| Thank you! |
All in all, a great weekend and celebration with little travel required …
0 Responses
What a fabulous weekend! The Ritz looks great. Rich and I will have to try a stay-cation too!