State Bliss Blog — southern california

Feast your eyes on these scaled down models of the new Star Wars Land

 

 

The models below were featured at the 2017 D23 Expo in Anaheim, Calif, showing bite size versions of two new attractions, as well as the rugged terrain filled with distressed buildings, a restaurant that resembles the Mos Eisley cantina, X-Wings and of course, a replica of the heroic Millennium Falcon.

 

 

The 14-acre addition to the park is based on a never-before-seen planet, according to a Disney insiders. Two new rides are being debuted-- the first one gives visitors a chance to pilot the Millennium Falcon, and the second puts the rider in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance.

 

“This is the most ambitious land we’ve built to date,” chairman of Disney’s parks division Bob Chapek said during a recent interview. Each land costing over 1 BILLION to be built.

Florida & Anaheim, CA will both be receiving their own Star Wars Land - both are expected to open by 2019.

Although attendance across all Disney parks are down this year, we have a feeling that will all change as soon as these highly anticipated park additions open in 2019. And you can probably bet that prices will continue to go up as they do every year. But will that stop you from going?

 

 

Photos sourced from this article 

15 Things You Will Miss When You Leave California

Californians have got it good. They’ve got it so good in fact, that when they leave, they quickly notice all that the state had to offer. Here are a few things near and dear to Californians hearts that they find unbearable to part with.

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1. The Weather

It’s universally understood that it is pretty much always beautiful in California. The sun shines, the waves crash blissfully on the beaches, and the landscapes, both natural and man-made are always on point. Good luck finding the same raw beauty esthetics elsewhere.

2. Avocado Abundance

Who doesn’t love a good avocado? Californians REALLY love their avocados. Avocado toast? Sure. Avocado smoothies? Even better. Avocado cake? Absolutely! Only in California. Seriously. The rest of the world will give you awkward sideways stares. Avocado lovers, unite – and flock to California, the land of the delicious, creamy green fruit.

3. Landscape Versatility

Whether you want to visit the coast or the city, California delivers. Want to escape to a forest hideout? Yeah, California’s got you covered. Desert oasis? You better believe California has the most beautiful Moroccan spas and resorts – right in the heart of the Mojave Desert. Californians face the cruel reality of the lack of existence of this kind of versatility anywhere else they travel to.

4. REAL Mexican Food

Proudly boasting the largest population of Mexican residents, California boasts the most authentic, fresh, satisfying Mexican cuisine you’ll find north of the border. When Californians travel anywhere else, the “Mexican food” just doesn’t even compare.

5. IN-N-Out

Double-double animal style burger and fries? What, you haven’t heard of it? That is grounds for ending friendships to native Californians! Ok, not really, but In-N-Out is a staple that every carnivorous Californian craves. Withdrawals are real.

6. The Lingo

Dude, it’s hella humid here. If you’ve ever muttered these words in New York, Atlanta, or elsewhere, chances are you got some pretty strange looks of confusion. California lingo is pretty limited to California – it’s part of home - and this becomes abundantly clear when you find yourself in the position of a displaced Californian.


7. Beaches Galore

Sure, there are beaches on both coasts, but California boasts some of the most beautiful pristine beaches along it’s perfectly manicured coasts. Surrounded by nightlife, dining, and tourist attractions, a day at the beach is never more exciting than when you’re in California.

8. Celebrity Encounters

Celebrity sightings are common amongst Californians. While the rest of the country is losing their minds over celebrity sightings, Californians are hanging out with local celebs and ordering coffee alongside them at Starbucks. What’s the big deal anyways, right?

9. Activities for Days

Never a dull moment. How could there be? With literally every activity imaginable, the great state of California offers a multitude of exciting opportunities to make the most of life. Want to learn aerial gymnastics? It’s right around the corner. Need to take a cooking class? No problem. California offers so much to its residents – they will literally never run out of things to do.

10. Diversity

People from all walks of life, all ethnicities, and all genders call California home. What’s even more impressive, is that the state values acceptance and welcomes everyone for who they are. You’ll never find a more inclusive state – a trait that is quickly missed by Californians (and visitors) when it is time to move on.

11. The Lifestyle

Californians live a truly different lifestyle. They live organically, advocate for acceptance, strive for greatness, and they make dreams come true. The sense of community and pride for their lifestyle of wellness is something easily missed by Californians that have relocated.


12. Disneyland

There are several Disney parks worldwide, but there is only ONE Disneyland. Californians are known to purchase season passes and visit regularly. Disneyland is an icon of the Golden State and Californians miss it dearly when they depart.

13. Shopping
Okay, it’s true – you can shop anywhere, but California is home to thousands of different shopping venues. If you dream it, you’ll find it in California. From countless outlet malls to specialty boutiques and shops, California offers a shopping experience unparalleled to anywhere else.

14. Opportunity

Everybody knows that if you want to be rich and famous, you get your big break by packing up your life and moving to California to pursue your dreams. While some success is built on skill, the majority of successful people have attained their positions by networking. California is a networking hot spot. If you have a dream and want to reach for the stars, there is a great chance that you’ll find the right people to rub elbows with in California.

15. Year-Round Farmer’s Markets

Remember how we mentioned the fantastic weather? Well, it also enables local farmers to churn out freshly harvested fruits and veggies all year round – and good thing! Californians love their fresh cuisine.

This 1962 retro Palm Springs flat known as “Walt’s Technicolor Dream House” has recently sold for $865,000.

The 2,444 square foot ranch style house, built for Walt Disney and his wife Lillian as a retreat for their later years, was owned by extended Disney family members and just listed for $899k in November 2016. This gold course home is right off the Indian Canyon fairway and has a 180 degree mountain views.

The four-bedroom residence was being used as a vacation rental, while being marketed as “Walt’s Technicolor Dream House” ... renting between $1,820 to $4,840 a week.

The home has personal Disney touches all throughout — ranging from notable quotes to famous drawings of Walt & Mickey Mouse.

 

This Southern California home is a classic blend of nostalgia mixed with mid century modern taste, featuring glass walls, backyard swimming pool and outdoor dining and recreation areas.

 

 

Original Article oc register HERE

Pictures By Klint Watkins

We've posted about In-N-Out and it's true, we do love their burgers, but we know they aren't the only burger place in California. We thought we'd welcome the coming of summer by compiling a list of the best burger places in California to get your mouth watering and to give you some possible road trip destinations.

Best Burgers in California

Etna Brewery, Etna

Enjoy a local brew and a fantastic burger at this Northern California local favorite. You can go old-school with a cheese burger or kick it up a notch with their well known Ortega Burger! Flickr by Zane Mulligan

Burgers & Brew, Sacramento

Grab a brew. Grab a burger.  Grab some friends and head on over to Burgers & Brew in Sacramento. With award winning brews and burgers (we're talking Best Burger in Yolo county!), you can't go wrong. Flickr by Angelo DeSantis

Pearl's Deluxe Burgers, San Francisco

The Yelp enthusiasts dub Pearl's Deluxe burgers to have one of the best burgers in California! Check it out for yourself and see if you agree. Flickr by hermitsmoores

Super Duper Burgers, San Francisco

They boast "Fast food burgers, slow food values" and what could be better than that? Everything's all natural and a lot of what they offer is made right there in the shop. Hop on over and check it out. Flickr by wEnDy

Zuni Cafe, San Francisco

Hidden amidst an impressive menu, you may not initially think of Zuni Cafe as a "burger place" but if what we're hearing is right, they offer an amazing (albeit high-end) burger! Flicker by Jason Hamner

Burger Lunge, Tahoe

Another Yelp reviewers favorite, this burger joint is the place to be this summer if you're in the Tahoe area. Make sure you come prepared to take your time selecting because they have an impressive lists of burgers to choose from. Flickr by Lauren

Hook Burger Bistor, Southern California Locations

The minute you take a bike of a Hook burger, you're sure to be hooked ;) We also love that they support many different causes. This is an all-around great burger place and definitely a great addition to your summer list. Flickr by Doran

Get the Burger, Big Bear

This home-grown burger place is a classic and just what you need whether you're enjoying summer hiking and tanning at the lake or shredding the slopes in the winter! Flickr by Jennifer

Lucky's Tavern, Hollywood

Lucky's boasts "made from scratch - artisan burgers" and is a prime spot for great beer and great burgers! From Lucky's Tavern

Umami, San Francisco and Southern California

With the trademark "U" stamped onto the top of their buns, Umami is in a class all its own. With many locations in Southern California and the bay area, you have no excuse to avoid a satisfying and delicious trip to Umami soon (today maybe?). Flickr by Larry

The Father's Office, Los Angeles

This Gastropub created by Chef Sang Yoon features their most popular burger, the "Office Burger". It's also a great place for beer with an European influenced atmosphere. Flickr by Daremoshiranai

Stout, Los Angeles

Stout offers affordable burgers to discerning Los Angeles foodies. Make a trek to discover their amazing gruyere and blue cheese burger toppings among other additions that make these burgers delicious  and some of the best burgers in California. Flickr by Drew Hubbard-Ben Waters

Mom's Burgers, Compton

They aren't healthy, and maybe sometimes they look a little overwhelming, but Mom's Burgers will knock your socks off! They are a must-have! From LA Weekly

Burger Boss, Riverside & Corona

With the option to order on line, natural ingredients, gluten free options, and so much more, how could we not put Burger Boss on a best burgers in California list? Flickr by Gabriel Amadeus

Dave's Burgers, Long Beach

At 4.5 starts on Yelp, you know that Dave's Burgers is the place to be! It's small and out of the way, but definitely worth a stop if you're in the Long Beach area. From Yelp by Louie B.

Rocky's Crown Pub, San Diego

The first thing you'll see on their website is this claim, " Welcome to Rocky's, home of the best burgers in San Diego" - couldn't get any clearer than that, could you? But their legend goes beyond just their website! Any local will tell you they've got what it takes to make the list of the best burgers in California! Flickr by Kirk K

Did we miss your favorite burger place? Tell us about it in the comments below!   Cover Photo from Flickr by James Source: Yelp, Thrillist, LA Weekly, We Be Trippin'

When things get shaking here in California the biggest question you need to ask is: Is your home earthquake-ready? We'd like to provide some great tips and procedures to help in earthquake proofing your California home. Flicker - J J Those of us down in Southern California have recently been experiencing a little earth-moving fun, and though the small quakes hardly do much damage [see a funny video of an overreaction here] there is the potential that larger quakes could follow. The best way to live without worry is to live prepared.

Earthquake Proofing Your Home

Structure

It's no fun thinking that you may need to have your house or building inspected, but when it comes to the structure you live in, being up to code an prepared is 100% worth it. Some key areas that will need to be assessed are your homes foundation, anchoring (where the walls are secured to the foundation), walls, main lines for gas, water, and electricity, as well as your water heater (source: SFGate.com). We recommend checking out the CA.gov Seismic Safety Commission website for more helpful information that is specific to California. Flickr - Jens H.

The Small Stuff

We're always told not to sweat the small stuff, but in this case, paying attention to the little details in your home could save you a lot of trouble should you experience an earthquake. Here is a list of items to consider securing to the wall:

• Bookcases
• Televisions
• Top-heavy or tall furniture (armories, entertainment centers, dressers)
• Refrigerators and other large kitchen appliances

Flickr - Jeremy Levine Here is a list of items you should consider moving or altering:

• Large or heavy items placed on top shelves (move to lower shelves)
• Adding latches to kitchen cabinet drawers
• Heavy or large wall art above beds (move away from bed)

When you can single out these potential issue areas, a few quick fixes will mean a world of difference should things start to shake.

Earthquake Kit

Being prepared goes past evaluating your home or living space. When you've got a handy earthquake kit ready, you can rest easy knowing that you're prepared no matter what. These items could come in handy in other situations as well so it's a win-win. Flickr - Kristian Niemi Suggested Earthquake Proofing Kit items:

• Water - Store a pack of water bottles (recommended 3 day supply) and calculate a ration of four quarts per person per day at minimum.
• Food - In this case, canned goods are a great way to go (don't forget the can opener!). You should also consider snacks and calorie-heavy foods such as peanut butter, granola, oatmeal, protein bars, nuts, and whole-grain crackers.
• Medicine - Have a backup supply of any necessary medicines just in case.
• First Aid Kit
• Additional clothing
• Blankets
• Flashlights & batteries (consider investing in a phone battery charger for emergency calls or to check the earthquake app for information)
• Simple tools (wrench to turn off gas etc.)
• Fire extinguisher
• Essential documents stored in a safe

TotallyUnprepared.com recommends purchasing a large trashcan with a waterproof lid to store all of your earthquake proofing items in. Check out their site for additional information on making your own kit. Flickr - Joe Burke We hope these tips help you to feel confident and secure that, no matter what happens, you can be assure you're earthquake proofing is complete. Living worry free in California is always the way to go!

Sources: Earthquake Safety & Survival and How Stuff Works Cover Photo from Flickr by Paree