things we've discovered in pasadena

We are planning on moving within the next few weeks and it makes me feel sentimental about little things in Pasadena that we will miss. Here are a few special things that we want to make sure our friends know about so they can enjoy them while they are in Pasadena!

If you're looking for a good bottle of wine, visit the wine shop on California and Lake Ave. The people there are real nice and helpful and they have everything from something cheap to something expensive. Just tell them the color or type of wine you want and the price range you are looking for and they will treat you right. One of the funniest things is that it's right behind the Pie 'n Burger shop and it's owned by the same people. I also love their little American flag that they hang out on the alley entrance on California when they're open. It's a great hole-in-the wall for Pasadenians.

One of the most mesmerizing things in Pasadena are the Jacaranda blossoms on Del Mar in May. Take a stroll. It's so delightful.

Jones Coffee on Raymond. Great beans. Sustainable practices. Quaint atmosphere. Excellent staff. Free wifi. And the owners are big fans of Fuller students and would love to chat. I will say no more. If you're smart, you will follow this advice: go, and go often.

All of the free summer events are possibly Donovan's favorite part about Pasadena. You have to choose between concerts at Levitt Pavilion, dancing at Paseo, and movies in One Colorado. Good, free fun.

Lacy Park. Go on a weekday and you won't have to pay $4 a person to enter this sweet gated oasis. It's where I go when I miss Oregon. Sometimes we picnic, other times we play bocce.... and it looks like a killer place to walk a dog or go for a run although I haven't done either there.

Happy hours. We will miss this so much when we move. It is a tradition for us, and it is so nice to not have to cook sometimes and just get out and walk together. Our favorites are: McCormick and Schmick's cheeseburgers and fries and white wine, Gordon Bierch's southwestern egg roll and local brews, Manny's Hawaiian pizza, or YardHouse's spicy personal pizza. Yum!

You have to go to the Rose Parade at least once. It's an all night adventure.

LA is so close to San Diego and other fun places to adventure for the day or weekend. Don't limit yourself... there is so much to see. Try seeing different beaches, and even visit them during Christmas, it's gorgeous when it's all lit up and cold. Stay in a hostel, go to the mountains, visit the desert. It's so diverse even if you drive two hours away!

And I'll save the best (perhaps?) for the last... visit Julienne once for breakfast. You could do it for a birthday or anniversary. Their french inspired dishes are delishous and I think far better than Marston's for a similar price.