It’s funny that Valentine’s Day is bearing down on us like an oncoming train. I still haven’t figured out what to get my husband yet, and I’m having trouble finding time to get out and shop, because I’m way too busy writing the rough draft of THE AWESOME GIRL’S GUIDE TO DATING EXTRAORDINARY MEN, which I recently decided to append with a “: I LOVE L.A.” — you know, because the title wasn’t long enough.
If a lottery was won, you would probably find my family setting up shop in Hawaii within the the month, but for now, I just adore LA. Living here has been like a relationship that started off well, went sour. We almost broke up a few times, but then we got back together again in the best way possible.
I love that every band that I’m interested in will eventually come through LA for a concert. After years of having to discover indie movies on tape and dvd, I love that I can now see whatever American indie I want in an actual movie theater. I like that there’s a scene for everyone in this city. If you’re a beautiful blond actress, there’s a scene for you. If you’re a schlumpy patent lawyer, there’s a scene for you. Even this nerdy black writer has been able to find plenty of friends in LA.
It’s funny, because I’ve heard so many people say that they could never live in LA, because it’s too looks-conscious. I would argue the opposite. I found St. Louis to be way too narrow-minded about what constituted a good-looking person. But out here somebody’s always going to like the way you look — especially if you’re unique.
I also love the movie-set diners, being able to eat whatever kind of food you’re in the mood for, always discovering a new and yummy restaurant. I honestly don’t think there’s any better place to be a foodie.
But right now, I loving LA, because it’s just a great place to do Valentine’s Day. Last year, we went to Dusty’s for breakfast, then the Griffith Observatory, and then a movie at the Arclight (where we didn’t have to get there early for a good seat, b/c it’s all reserved seating), and then a nice dinner at my favorite South American restaurant.
This year, we’re switching it up to accommodate the little one. We’ll probably all go somewhere for breakfast, then a museum, then Betty will spend some quality time with her Grandma, while my husband and I hit dinner and a play. Los Angeles makes switching up your usual Valentine’s Day plans easy.
So I consider this post, along with my next book a Valentine to my city. I seriously can’t think of a better place to spend the day represented by a great big heart.
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Ernessa T. Carter is the author of the novel, 32 CANDLES, which will be released by HarperCollins/Amistad on June 22, 2010. Pre-order your copy on Amazon here.
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