Fourth of July

Having our first Fourth of July back in the USA, we decided to have a cook out and invite Larry's office mates. Only two families were able to join us but we did have a good time chatting, meeting everyone and just enjoying a leisurely evening. This also gave us an excuse to fire up the grill and do some real grilling.

To top the evening off, we went to the Community Center so we could see the San Pedro

fireworks from Cabrillo Beach. Everyone had commented from when we first arrived how we would have a spectacular view of the fireworks and that the show was really good; so we looked forward to this and one of the families was able to stay late enough to enjoy them too.

The viewing area was crowded but it

was a fabulous show and we enjoyed it very much. Of course, I will always be particularly fond of Rockford, IL's fireworks set to music (thank you 104.9 FM for spoiling me) but this was a pretty well done show in it's own right. We already have plans to see it again next year.

Local favorites

LD and I got a late start this morning but we enjoyed relaxing our morning away. When we did get up and moving out of the house, we drove down Pacific Avenue to see if we could see any of the filming that they had closed portions of the street for. After some exploration online we found out that the closure was for the Jonas Brothers to film their latest video. Although we were not able to see any of the filming itself (closures were actually pretty effective) we did hear some of the lingo "rolling" and "cut".

Our ultimate destination though was to try the Gaffey Street Diner. We'd driven by this place often enough and couldn't help but notice that they advertised being featured on the Food Network. Turns out they were featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives which has quickly become one of our favorite Food Network Programs (when we have the opportunity to watch TV). I've included the clip below.

We enjoyed our breakfasts of choice and the staff was friendly. While we were there someone ordered, and the waiter showed us the French Toast Supreme and we must admit that it looked bigger and better in person than it did on TV. Before we left we assured ourselves that we revisit in the very near future and, perhaps, share a French Toast Supreme.

No time for sight-seeing today. Today my friend returns to the Midwest. Bummer!! This was my first time driving to the LA Airport. I'll admit that I was originally nervous but it turned out okay and somehow I think I'll be making the trip to pick up visitors in the future. I'm hoping that ARP enjoyed her visit as I know I enjoyed having her here.