Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Back From Cali...Again

Talk about a winter "break." If a break from school means traveling to the opposite side of the country to perform with the New England Youth Ensemble, play 3 billion concerts, sleep in California mansions, and eat at In-n-Out Burger, then I had one heck of break.

On this trip, I noticed something: I'm becoming increasingly picky about my flight arrangements. We flew United and when you compare this great American airline with ANA (Japan's super efficient airline) it doesn't even come close! I spent 5 hours crushed in a tiny seat with my knees up to my chin begging the stuartist for a second pack of peanuts and a cup of water. The movie selection was terrible...for some reason the Jane Austin Book Club didn't interest me too much and watching The Rock flex his muscles in the Game Plan was as exciting as watching a Thomas' English muffin in my toaster oven. Sheesh.

But, besides the flight, Southern California, again, left me wanting more when it was time to go. The orchestra played several concerts over a week in about 5 or 6 different cities - most of which were about 45 minutes from Los Angeles. The last two days were spent in sunny San Diego - what a freakin' gorgeous city. Unfortunately, we didn't have much time for sight seeing, but just being out in the weather was a reward in itself. Standing on line at Cha-Cha's with the warm sun beaming down, and snow covered mountains all around, and the palm trees, and the ultra-chill people...it was great! The amount of money in Southern Cal is remarkable. We stayed with one family who provided us with a "modest home" - only worth about 1 million. Their "modest" '95 Mercedes had a more humble look on the road next to the BMW's and high rollers.

Besides the jaw-dropping scenery and real estate, I was supposed to meet John D'Aquino on a movie set (he is the guy who does sound for the Super Trooper guys). But, our schedules conflicted and couldn't work anything out this time. We'll see in the future.

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