A Very Happy Easter Indeed

While my Easter (unfortunately) didn't include Bloody Marys and a Lamb Cake like Mary's did, it did include church, yoga and gourmet Mexican food, which made for a very happy Easter indeed. :-)

The holiday weekend started earlier than usual as my wonderful place of employment let us off for a half-day on Thursday and the whole day on Friday.  It. Was. Glorious.  There are few things I love more than 3-day weekends.  My normal weekends are usually so packed that I never get a day to actually just REST and catch up on life.  Three day weekends provide that muuuuch needed day of rest.  I honestly think that we should have a 4-day work week and a 3-day weekend all the time.  I feel like studies have been done to prove that this schedule creates a much more happy, healthy and productive work environment.  One day I just might compile all that info and present a proposal of this amazing idea to my bosses.  (I'm only mildly joking about this).  I digress...

Easter Sunday was was a wonderful day spent with wonderful friends.  I began the day at my beloved church (Pacific Crossroads) where we celebrated the true meaning of this glorious day:

After a festive post-service party/reception and lunch, Ellen and I went back to her place to take an afternoon siesta. Feeling refreshed from this little power nap, I took her to one of my favorite things: Erika's power yoga class at The Sports Club LA. This class is just incredible. It's an hour and half long and an insanely good work out.  As we are sweating our booties off, she plays the best music (NOT your average "yoga" music. Her playlists often include a random mix of The Beatles, Jay Z, Death Cab, Florence + the Machine, etc.) I often go through a full range of emotion/motivation levels in this class: I start off feeling strong and by minute 45 or so, I feel like I am about to die and can't possibly finish; then there's another upswing, and by the end I feel like I just had a full body massage and can't wait for next week. Needless to say, it was a wonderful addition to my Easter afternoon.

Later that evening, I enjoyed an abnormally delicious dinner at a super swanky/sexy/cool new Mexican restaurant on Melrose called Red O with some of my dearest friends: Garrett, Bradley, Matt and Ellen. Ellen is quite the foodie, so she had been eyeing this new venture by Rick Bayless (who, according to my quick glance at his bio, is originally from Oklahoma!) for a while. Everything was delicious, but the Quesos Fundidos appetizer and the Veracruz-style Buelos (with salted caramel ice cream and warm Kahlua chocolate sauce) dessert were to-die-for must try items. Probably the fanciest (and most delectable) Easter dinner I've ever had. :-)

The flash next to Matt's head is Bradley who kindly offered to take my 8:11 pic that evening. (it kind of looks like Tinkerbell in that old weird version of Peter Pan... anyone remember that one?  Just me?  Okay.)

Overall, it was a great day. Happy happy spring. :-)

xoxo, 

at

A Public Service Announcement: Beware of Jesus Pimps

While you may not be familiar with the term Jesus pimp (coined by my 'little' Anne Birkett in 2005 when describing the king of Jesus pimps in action at the OU cafeteria), you are more than likely all-too-familiar with the kind of guys it describes.  


Ben Lee gives the basic definition of a Jesus pimp in his song Get Gotten... "Big, big dreams in a small, small world, and I'm using God to pick up girls..."  


And that is what they do, whether on purpose or not, Jesus pimps use the inherent 'good guy' status associated with their church involvement, community service, extracurricular activities, etc, to lure in unsuspecting girls.  Sometimes they find their perfect match in a lovely little Jesus pimptress (yes, girls can qualify for this as well), but often their actions just lead to annoying confusion and frustration.  After witnessing and experiencing the obnoxious behaviors of Jesus pimps far too many times throughout the years, I decided that the world needed a PSA warning against their kind.  (Please note that I am by NO MEANS issuing a PSA about Christian guys in general.  As a Christian myself, a guy's faith is of major importance to me when deciding whether or not to date him.  Jesus pimps are not your average nice Christian guy, although sometimes they can be cleverly disguised as one, hence the need for this post.)


In order to best detail the variety of J.P. tendencies, I've broken them down into five categories: the multi-tasker, the evangelist,  the over-eager, the non-committer, and the wolf in sheep's clothing.  


1.) The Multi-Tasker

 A distinct breed of a "player", this type of Jesus pimp leads numerous hopeful girls on simultaneously. What distinguishes him from regular players is the fact that while he's irresponsibly wooing multiple girls, he does not actually hook up with them, like a normal player would. Instead, the multi-tasking J.P. simply takes a multitude of girls on seemingly innocent dates in the guise of 'just hanging out', ergo, not getting serious with any of them. He is overly (read: annoyingly) friendly and outgoing and thinks that every female between the ages of 18 and 29 is automatically great friends with him after one brief introduction.  He tends to be very affectionate, embracing even minor female acquaintances in huge bear hugs upon seeing them. He's fun-loving and spontaneous but also slightly indie and pensive, so get ready for invitations for free-spirited activities like playing frisbee outside barefoot and cool slightly alternative activities like getting coffee and studying together in the library.  With this seemingly 'great catch' giving flirty affection to all the girls he is 'really close friends' with on a regular basis, it's no wonder that many girls fall into the trap of thinking he's totally into them and about to make them his perfect little Jesus pimptress girlfriend.  I'm sorry to break it to you, darlings, but he's not.  He's probably taking another little fresh-faced female to your favorite coffee shop right now. 


2.) The Evangelist

 This type of Jesus pimp is heavier on the Jesus, lighter on the pimp. The term 'missionary dating' comes to mind here. This type of J.P. likes to bring females of lesser spiritual vigor than himself on 'dates' such as attending a worship night or Bible study together.  He often wears some type of Christian influenced jewelry and is likely a member of Christian fraternity like BYX (Brothers Under Christ).  His hobbies often include playing the guitar or djembe in a worship band and going on mission trips to Africa.  


3.) The Over-Eager

 This J.P. is ready to be a hubby and if you do something as innocent as introduce yourself to him at a crowded bar, this makes you a worthy candidate to be his wifey. Seriously, this guy goes from 0-60 in less than 10 seconds. Heaven forbid you actually agree to go on a first date with him...date #2 might be looking at engagement rings.  Okay, this is a bit of hyperbole, yes, but this type of J.P. really does want to dive into an intense serious relationship ridiculously quickly, often based simply on the fact that you too like Jesus and you have given him the slightest bit of attention.  He does not understand subtlety, so unfortunately, when you catch onto his craziness and screen all of his calls, he won't get it.  You're going to have to just be up front and tell him it's a no go and to look elsewhere for his love connection (and even then, he will probably sporadically try to flirt with you via facebook chat for many months/years to come), unless of course you too are one of the "ring before spring" types, in which case, every happiness to you both... 


4.) The Non-Committer

 This type of J.P. is particularly confusing. He will take a girl on many legit, non-deniable dates and play the complete role of a boyfriend (planning the dates, picking her up, opening the car door, paying for everything, etc.) only to claim that he and the girl are 'just friends' months later when the girl finally caves and brings up a DTR (define the relationship) conversation of sorts. These are more than the 'hang out' dates common to the multi-tasker; these are nice dinners/drinks/movies/concerts/etc. Straight up dates.  During these wonderful dates, there will likely be a confusing lack of affection.  When the ridiculous mixed signals get the best of her and the girl brings up a DTR (because he certainly won't bring it up himself) he will likely say some sort of (lame) excuse like that he really loves spending time with her but that he just can't be in a relationship during this season of life or that he doesn't think God wants him to date right now or something like that. 


5.) The Wolf in Sheep's Clothing

 This J.P. comes off as an innocently sweet guy, chivalrous, respectful and thoughtful to the max, but in reality he just wants to take off your pretty little church dress. He will likely play up the good guy card big time, sharing many qualities with the evangelist and multi-tasker.  Don't let the fact that you met him at church, he volunteers with Big Brothers/Big Sisters and he brings you on such innocent creative dates like flying kites and feeding the ducks at the duck pond fool you.  He can throw those positive moral values down the drain and turn into the likes of a horny frat guy faster than you can say "P-I-M-P."  


So there you have the five main categories of Jesus pimps. Several of these behaviors overlap between categories (especially The Evangelist's characteristics), and the tendencies/behaviors of this special breed of boys are by no means limited to those described here. 


I hope this PSA is an enlightening resource to help girls avoid the confusion and frustration of encounters with Jesus pimps and to help boys not be Jesus pimps themselves.  Spread the word: friends don't let friends date/be Jesus pimps. 


your PSA announcer, 
Annie

Food Trucks and Yoga and Red Carpets, Oh My.

Food trucks are all the rage in LA these days. Hungry patrons follow their favorite trucks on Twitter or blogs and flock to their ever-changing locations. There is probably at least one truck for almost any kind of food you could possibly want... from Korean BBQ to banana pudding to grilled cheese to cupcakes, etc, etc, etc. 


Last Sunday, my amazing church held a preview service of its new downtown location followed by a launch party. Much to my extreme excitement and joy, this party was catered by the In-n-Out truck!  (For those who haven't had the privilege of experiencing In-n-Out Burger, it is a famous California hamburger restaurant that is simply wonderful and loved by all. For those of you who live in the Dallas area, count your lucky stars because this traditionally solely West Coast chain is coming your way soon). 

There is just something inexplicably appealing about lining up and being served delicious food out of a large truck with dear friends. Appealing to so many, in fact, that on July 24th, LA will be holding a Street Food Festival . $45 to go sample food from all the amazing LA food trucks. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it...who wants to go with me?!


One positive thing about job searching is that you get to try out new exciting things during the weekdays that you never would have an opportunity to do while you're working. One of the cool things I've recently discovered is free daily outdoor yoga classes at Runyon Canyon. 

I've gone a few times and it's really great. While certain variables are a bit distracting (like the time a little gopher thing that was popping up and staring at me during my downward facing dogs), it really is a peaceful and cool experience to do yoga under the beautiful blue sky in nature. (Please pardon the crazy California hippie talk... it comes out on occasion). ;-) 

"Are you free tonight for a possible event at Industry? Not sure if I have a plus-one or not. Starts at 7. It's a charity thing with cast from Twilight."  I randomly received this text message from my dear friend and former co-worker, Lorrin, on Monday.  Turns out she did get a plus-one, so I shuffled around some plans and got dressed up for this mystery charity event. Lorrin and I have both been to our fair share of events like this that make grandiose claims that huge A-list stars will be in attendance, and oftentimes these claims do not come to be, so we were highly skeptical we would be partying with vampires that evening. We arrived at Industry  (SBE's newest nightlife venture; formerly Area) to find a crowd of paparazzi, reporters, and a small red carpet.  Maybe someone legit was going to show up after all?  We made our way inside and to the open bar. As we spent the next hour or so catching up, it became apparent that our suspicions were correct and T. Laut and R.Patt weren't showing up any time soon. The gradiose claims weren't a COMPLETE crock, though. These lovely Twilight cast members hosted the night and graced us all with their presence: 

 

Overall, a fun night. When dressing up, an open bar, yummy hor d'ourves, and endlessly entertaining people watching are involved, you can't go wrong. Thanks for the last minute invite, Lorrin. (If only there had been a food truck there...)  ;-) 

at

Annie's Favorite Things About LA: Facebook at the Upright Citizens Brigade

The "Facebook" show at the Upright Citizens Brigade in Hollywood is hands down one of the greatest things in Los Angeles.  Every Wednesday, Paul Scheer, Rob Huebel, Chad Carter, Owen Burke, and Seth Morris do incredibly hilarious improv skits based on two audience members' facebook profiles.  They are often joined by amazing surprise guests like Ed Helms, Rob Riggle, and the guy who plays Kenneth on 30 Rock.  Here's the cast giving a nice little explanation of their brilliant show:





As you might have guessed, I go to this show often.  A few weeks ago, I had the exciting and unique experience of being one of the audience members they chose to interview. This is how that choice is made: willing audience members raise their hands and give a one-sentence pitch about themselves that would entice the guys to choose them.  The range of these pitches runs the gamut.  I've heard everything from something lame like "I'm Jewish" to hilarious winners like "I was pepper-sprayed by a transvestite on a bicycle" and "I am a recently retired professional figure skater."  Usually the guys pick the best pitch, but occasionaly they choose stupid ones. (Like the time I bravely raised my hand and said "I participated in a tomato fight with over 50,000 people in Spain last week" but they chose a fool who said "Jim Carey yelled at me once."  I was a bit bitter about that.. can you tell?) After that experience I vowed to never volunteer again.  Until....


As the unofficial "social chair" of my community group (a.k.a. 'small group', 'Bible study', etc.), I suggested that we all go to this show for a fun and laughter-filled social night (although I warned them it was definitely not rated PG).  A big group of us went.  The first girl they picked to interview was a complete and total skank. Most of their skits were based on the little biatch's promiscuity, and therefore, were pretty uncomfortable to watch with my community group.  I decided to capitalize on this awkwardness; I raised my hand and said, "I went to the Oscars last month and I'm here with my entire Bible study right now."  They were astounded by this and called me up immediately. 


To give you an idea of how the interviews/skits work, I'll explain what they did with my profile. First, I signed into my FB account which is displayed on a big screen for all to see. Paul Scheer then asks questions...things like "So why did you go to the Oscars?" "Who was the biggest biatch you saw on the red carpet?" "Who was the nicest on the red carpet?" "So, you're in charge of the red carpet bleachers? What are some crazy things the bleacher fans do?" "Why is your Bible study here??" "Why is 'She's the Man' your favorite movie?? etc..."  I answered all of these questions and more with little anecdotes.  


After about 10 minutes of perusing my profile and interviewing, they begin making up skits based on my profille including but not limited to: Red Carpet bleacher fans looking for the restroom and accidentally stumbling onstage at the Kodak Theatre as the Best Actor Oscar is being announced; George Clooeny being insanely friendly and shaking everyone's hands (as he did with the bleacher fans at the Oscars) until he loses Best Actor and then bursts into a fit of rage; an overly enthusisastic "youth group" of 20-somethings planning a social night at a highly inappropriate place; a movie rental place called "She's the Video Man" that only carries Amanda Bynes movies; etc.  I obviously cannot give these hilarious skits any sort of justice in writing, but hopefully this gives an inkling of their geniusly inspired improv.  


If you live in LA: go to this show!!
If you don't live in LA: come visit and go to this show!!
It is an absolute must.
And if you're feeling moxie, think of a cool pitch, and who knows, they just might pick you!






at

Amazing New Artist Alert

The first post-Oscar blog is a toughie.  It is admittedly a bit daunting to follow up one of the most surreal and exciting days of my life. 


That said, I think a worthy topic for this slightly-procrastinated post is my dear friend and extremely talented musician, Alex Rhodes. 

I first experienced Alex's incredible Norah Jones-esque vocals at my wonderful church where she sings on the worship team. I then experienced her sweet friendship as we went to the same weekly community group and began hanging out on a semi-regular basis.  She quickly became not only one of my favorite singers, but also one of my favorite people in Los Angeles. :-)


Alex's musical prowess doesn't end with her voice; she is an amazing songwriter, guitar player AND piano player.  I mean... wow.  I would be thrilled to possess merely ONE of those talents.  Ha.  Her intelligent lyrics are meaningful and relatable.  Here are the lyrics to my very favorite Alex Rhodes song.  When she played it for me in her room last spring, I had just experienced essentially the exact same situation.  It truly felt like she had taken all my crazy mixed up emotions and expressed them poetically to music... probably one of the most cathartic musical experiences I've ever had! (In fact, I think I made her play it like three times in a row...haha). It's called "Honestly"....


Don't play with me.
Finish what you started
When you gave your seat
Looked straight in my eyes
Until i could not breath, oh

I'm crazy now
Fine before our conversation
Took me down
You caught me like a hunter
Do I wait it out?

Unclench my fists
Wrapped around the signals
That I must have missed
All the boxes checked

I'll throw away that list, oh

But honestly
Why'd you go and light up
Like you wanted me?
This is not the way
I'd like my heart to be, oh

I hope that little lyrical preview whet your appetite. Luckily, Alex's debut EP is coming out soon!  Until then, do yourself a big favor and check out her lovely tunes here.  You can thank me later.  ;-)