State Bliss Blog — Food

Knowing that over half of Americans own smart phones, we've compiled a list of some of the best apps that every Californian should have! Whether it's traffic reports on congested roadways or a vacation idea, we've got you covered.

Best Smart Phone Apps Every Californian Should Have

California Road Report See CalTrans road conditions, chain control, find rest stops, and even see CHP incidents with this handy app! From Pinterest via Lumoid California Essential Guide ($4.99) At about the price of a venti drink at Starbucks, this hand app will help you plan your next California vacation! Disneyland App | Mouse Wait There are many Disneyland apps but this is a favorite. If you live in Southern California you must have this app. California State Parks Map ($0.99) It may cost you almost a dollar, but this app for California State Parks is worth it! Plan a trip to the California Redwoods and use this app to download maps of the area to always know where you are. From Wikipedia - Tide Pools

California Tidepools We call this one of the best apps because, if you're on the California coast, this app is a must! The beautiful photos and informational captions will help you explore the California coast.

DiscoverIt! California This free app claims to help you, "Find Anything - no cell service, no internet, no maps, no pins, no typing!" With points of interest, information for hikers and bikers, and so much more, this app has to be included in a best apps list! Flickr- Scott Smith California Traffic Report Avoid getting stuck in traffic with this app that covers Los Angeles, the Bay Area, and San Diego. California Atlas ($4.99) No matter where you are in California, this atlas app will show you the way to go! California Traffic Cameras/Transit/Travel/NOAA See what's going on in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Diego through his handy free app. California Hot Springs ($9.99) It may be a little more expensive (like one month of Spotify) but if you love mineral springs and spas, this is the app for you. California Ins & B&B’s ($2.99) Find inns, B&B's and cute boutique hotels with this amazing app. California's Gold Country Travel Guide As part of the best apps for California, we couldn't leave out the history buffs. Use this app for traveling and discovering more about California's rich history. California Farmers' Market Finder Look all over California to find a Farmers' Market near you! Yelp Though not specific to California, this has to be part of a best apps list because it's just so helpful! From Pinterest via renewable-energy-news.info

Chimani Yosemite National Park Travel to Yosemite National Park with this amazingly helpful app.

California Wine Club Food and Wine Wheel Pair any wine with any food using this handy app made for the California Wine Club. California Breweries For the discerning beer connoisseur this app has it all - a list of brewery locations and information. From Pinterest via Tumbler California Surfing ($4.99) Dude you like, need to have this totally awesome surfing app. It's for sure the gnarliest app ever! Skate California ($0.99) Perfect guide to the skate parks of California. QuakeFeed for Earthquakes It's no secret that earthquakes are bound to happen in California. Use this completely free app to get alerts, see maps, and find out the size of any earthquake! Fire Station App ($1.99) Often, during the summer especially, California is prone to wilderness and residential fires. This app lets you in on where all local fire stations are. San Francisco Exploration Guide Visit San Francisco and use this app to get around. Hearst Castle Planning that trip to see the Hearst Castle? Navigate through it with this app! From PInterest by hendartopermadi

Pocket Penguins See these cuties live from the California Academy of Sciences! Perfect for a break at lunch.

California Homes for Sale Do you love California so much you've decided to move? Or maybe it's time to relocate? Use this app to find the perfect location! VSCO Cam One of the best apps for photo editing. Every Californian should have this free app!  

Sun, fun, and swimsuits are just around the corner. The big question is: are you ready for the beach? California offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast. With warm weather quickly approaching, fitting into that perfect swimsuit or pair of trunks is a must. We've got some fitness tips and tricks to share so you'll be ready for the beach just in time for summer!

California Meal Tips

Eating out: Everyone loves a great meal and there is nothing better than going out with friends, but eating out all the time can hurt your chances of being ready for the beach this summer. Some things to consider when you eat out:

• What are you ordering? Check out the lighter menu options.
• Do you know what's in your dish? Restaurants add a lot of fattening ingredients - watch things like dressings, sauces, and side dishes.
• Whats a true portion size? They make take-out boxes for a reason!
• Do you really need dessert? Usually, the answer is no.

[caption id="attachment_707" align="alignleft" width="414"] Flickr-RoOoNa[/caption]   Make it at home: Life is busy, but don't underestimate making your meals at home. Try making a salad the night before or bagging fruits and veggies as a snack or meal for the next day. Snacks: What are you snacking on? Sometimes we just crave something sweet or salty and that gets us in trouble.   Check out these snack substitutes:

• Unsalted nuts in place of greasy chips
• Carrots in place of Chex Mix
• Fruit in place of a frappuccino
• One serving of dark chocolate in place of a candy bar
• Chew gum when you aren't hungry but feel the need to snack

California Fitness Tips

[caption id="attachment_711" align="alignleft" width="284"] Flickr-bangkokrecorder.com[/caption] Take the stairs: It may seem too early to trek all the way up to your office but it's definitely a great decision to get you ready for the beach! Take a walk: It's easy to stay in one spot all day. Consider using a portion (or all) of your lunch break to take a walk! The exercise will energize you and help you avoid an afternoon slump. Say no to soda: Cut out this sugary drink and replace it with water to see the results for yourself. This could make the difference in losing the last few pounds you can't seem to get rid of!

California Workouts to Help You Get Ready for the Beach

Cardio Cali Style: However you like to fit it in, carido is a vital part of any workout routine. Instead of running on a treadmill, try getting your cardio in California-Style. Some suggestions: biking, rollerblading, beach volleyball, or Ultimate Frisbee. The more you involve your friends, the more exciting these actives will be. Strength Training: Don't underestimate the power of adding weights to any workout routine. Ladies may shy away from this, but adding weights to your workout doesn't mean you'll bulk up like a body builder. It will, however, mean toning, definition, and weight loss. [caption id="attachment_710" align="aligncenter" width="558"] Flicrk-Fitness First Germany[/caption]

Gym or no gym - that is the question: Can't seem to make it to the gym? Uninspired by staring at a blank wall? Try your workout outside. The fresh air, scenery, and visual stimulation can be a great motivator. Also try working out in groups. It's great motivation and perfect for accountability.

Have we inspired you? What keeps you motivated and ready for the beach?

Cover Photo: Flickr-Lumperjack

The hottest Southern California Festivals for 2014 are here! It's time to get out your calendar and start marking in your weekend plans. Remember all those things you promised you were going to get around to doing? The summer of 2014 is the perfect time to do them! Check out this list of festivals and explore new foods, fun entertainment, live music, and even homemade crafts and art. No matter what your budget is, or your time-off, there is an option for you in this list.

Southern California Festivals

April 5-6 | Scandinavian Festival of Southern California in Thousand Oaks: Come explore all things Scandinavian: food, traditions, and art. Admission $7.50.  April 11 | The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio: Better known to music fans as Coachella, this three day festival will satisfy all of your musical cravings! Admission price ranges depending on show and seat location. Find tickets online. [caption id="attachment_517" align="aligncenter" width="690"] Flickr-Moby[/caption] April 18-20 | Catalina Art Fair and Exhibition on Catalina Island: This art fair known as CAFE lasts three days and will have a host of vendors showing off their handmade crafts and arts. April 25-26 | Stagecoach Country Music Festival in Indio: This festival is a must for Country music lovers. This year featured artists include Eric Church, Jason Aldean, and Luke Bryan among other artists. Admission varies depending on ticket availability. May 8 | WorldFest in Lake Balboa: An earth-day festival to rival all others. Admission is currently $8 but goes up to $12 on May 1st so order online soon! May 25-26 | JazzReggae Festival in Los Angeles: LA is known for its music scene so it's only fitting that you plan on attending the JazzReggae Festival. Plus, their website is just amazing. Admission tickets go on sale in April. May 30, 31, June 1 | Balloon and Wine Festival in Temecula: From wine tasting to musical entertainment, not to mention the hot air balloons, this event is a must for your summer plans. Bring your kids and pretend you're in the movie Up. Admission varies but the range is between $15 and $25. [caption id="attachment_645" align="aligncenter" width="580"] From Adventure Flights[/caption] [caption id="attachment_646" align="alignleft" width="300"] From Souplantation[/caption] July 25-27 | Garlic Festival in Gilroy: Vampires beware! The sixth annual Garlic Festival, titled the "Ultimate Summer Food Fair" will offer drinks, food, and local arts and crafts booths. You may consider bringing an extra box of mints...or two. Admission is $20. July 26-27 | Watermelon Festival in Pasadena: When it comes to summer, there is no better treat than ice-cold watermelon. Join in the fun at the Watermelon Festival. Admission is $8 if purchased online or $10 at the gate. Note that parking is $4. Which Southern California festivals are you planning on attending for 2014? Unfortunately, this is not an exhaustive list. Is there a festival you love attending that we missed? Share the details in the comments below! October 3 | Avocado Festival in Carpinteria: Have a love affair with avocados like we do? Then mark your calendars for the Avocado Festival. Admission is free. Cover Photo of Coachella from Flickr by Tana Ferguson

Planning out your spring break? Thinking of switching up your summer vacation this year? Well, you're in luck! This list of Central California Festivals for 2014 is the best of the best! We've listed anything and everything from the popular Apple Blossom Festival in Sebastopool to the state-wide event of the California State Fair in Sacramento. This list is great for weekend getaways or day trips. If you plan it right, you may be able to fit in several Central California Festivals before the end of the year. But first, if you're wondering what all the hype about festivals is, check out these these three reasons why you should attend one.

Don't miss out: attend a Central California Festival and find...

Fun handcrafted items that are great for gifts.

From - San Francisco Citizen

Amazing live music and entertainment.

From - San Francisco Citizen

Great food - and lots of it. (Sometimes it's free too!)

Flickr-The Food Film Festival Have we helped you make up your mind? See the list below and mark your calendars! Take note of festivals with free admission if you're looking for budge-friendly options.

Central California Festivals

April 4-5 | 46th Annual Bockbierfest in Sacramento: Enjoy an authentic German experience with traditional German dancing,  food, bock bier, wine, and live Polka music. Festival includes children's actives and crafts. Admission is $20/day and $5 for children. April 12-13 | Apple Blossom Festival in Sebastopool:  Live music and fun for the whole family, the Apple Blossom Festival has it all. Admission is $10. Flickr-David Yu April 12-14 & April 19-20 | Cherry Blossom Festival in San Francisco: If you couldn't make it to the Apple Blossom Festival, stop by the Cherry Blossom Festival which is said to be the second largest Cherry Blossom Festival apart from the one in Washington, D.C. Honolulu Magazine May 17-18 | Oakdale Chocolate Festival in Oakdale: Seriously, who could pass up a chocolate festival? Nothing better than chocolate, live music, and a fun festival atmosphere. Admission $4 if you register by May 15. May 24 | Santa Cruz Blues Festival: Did If you love Blues or just live music in general, this festival is for you! Check out their website for a lineup of artists. Admission ranges between $25 to $190 depending on what you want to see. May 24-25 | Strawberry Festival in Arroyo Grande: This strawberry festival is one of the largest in California and features ethnic foods, booths filled with arts and crafts, and all things strawberry-related. Visit the website for admission information coming in May. From - San Francisco Citizen June 7-8 | Union Street Festival in San Francisco: This event spans six blocks and offers a different "world" for each block (like Fashion World or Tech World). Make sure and purchase tasting tickets online before hand and come hungry! Admission is free. July 11-27 | California State Fair in Sacramento: Experience the California State Fair with food, fun, and activities for the whole family. Admission is $12 and ride tickets are available for purchase online. July 19-20 | Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards 22nd Annual Catalan Festival in Sonoma: Enjoy Spanish food and wine, live classical guitar music, and flamenco dancing among other entertainment in the Spanish tradition. Admission is $65 and tickets can be purchased online. August 30-31 | Whisky Live at the Games in San Francisco: Are you a whisky connoisseur? Join the this Central California festival and enjoy the best whiskies from around the world. Admission not yet announced. Did we miss your favorite Central California festival? Comment below and fill us in! Do you live in Northern California? Check out our list of Northern California Festivals for 2014. Cover photo from Flickr-beppesabatini

This list of Northern California Festivals for 2014 can help you plan out your Spring Break and summer plans. Whether you like trying new foods or exploring local arts and crafts booths, these festivals will give you a vast range of options to choose from. Russian River Jazz and Blues Festival

Northern California Festivals

April 12 | Banff Street Festival in Redding: This Street Fair has it all: rock climbing, outdoor recreation groups, local outfitters, and various vendors all out on the streets in front of the Cascade Theatre where the Banff Mountain Film Festival is held. Admission is free. April 19 | California Nut Festival in Chico: Go nuts for the California Nut Festival! This Northern California festival is perfect for foodies of all kinds with food and beverage tastings. Admission is $25 in advance (online) or $30 at the door. May 31 - June 1 | Summer Arts & Music Festival in Benbow: This arts and music festival, located among the beautiful California Redwoods, is the perfect weekend getaway. Camp nearby and enjoy great music, food, and local crafts.   Admission is $15 a day or $25 for both days. May 15-16 | Arts Festival in Arcata: Hosted during Humboldt State's graduation week, this is the perfect festival to attend as a new graduate! It features art exhibits, local crafts, and food provided by local businesses. Admission is $10 for adults $5 for kids with free parking. Flickr-Daphne June 6 | Oyster Festival in Arcata: Love Oysters? Then you have to check out this festival that's ranked seventh out of the top ten food festivals in the world. That's saying a lot of this small town in Northern California! There is lot to see and do during this festival so make sure to check out their sweet website. Admission is free. Oyster Festival June 15 |Fish Festival in Trinidad: Ever wanted to go inside a real lighthouse? Attend the Fish Festival in Trinidad and you can! You'll also be able to eat all the fish you can at discount prices! Admission is free. June 14-August 3 |  Lavender Farms in Mt. Shasta: Rows upon rows of beautiful lavender, lavender products, and a scent you'll never want to leave! Not quite a festival but something you'll definitely want to plan on seeing if you're in Northern California. Flickr-slicedgeek July 4-6 | Artisan Market and Street Fair Mt. Shasta: Every 4th of July Mount Shasta hosts a walk/run celebration and parade coupled with a Street Fair the rest of the weekend. Plan your visit to walk or run in the morning enjoying live music and vendor goodies and then visit the Street Fair after. Admission to the Street Fair is free. Check out the Mountain Runners website for registration info for the walk/run. July 26-27 | Westhaven Blackberry Festival in Trinidad: Pick up some blackberry jam or a pie while enjoying live music. Or you can enjoy a hamburger at this even to benefit the Westhaven Volunteer Fire Department.  September 20-21 | Russian River Jazz and Blues Festival in Guerneville: Admission is $50 with two day passes available for $80. Find events you're interested in? Did we miss one? Let us know in the comments below! Source: California's Redwood Coast Events Cover Photo from Flirckr-Humbolt Sate University