State Bliss Blog

Places to Experience Snow in California

When it’s Christmas and you’re from the United States, people from other continent will be asking you of how it feels to celebrate white Christmas. Yes, they call it white Christmas as they see pictures of a blankets of really white snow covering the entire place. But, some people are not aware that this does not happen everywhere in the United States. One state that does not experience snow during Christmas is California. Why? Because of its geographical position near the Pacific where the sun mostly shine. For those who really love or want to experience the snow, they might say that California is so unlucky for not having it but they might have not seen the entire place yet.

It might not be snowing most of the places in California but did you know that you can still experience snow in the place? Yes, it’s true. You may still enjoy the snow even if you are in a sunny state! It’s like, if you want snow, then you can choose to see snow but if you prefer a warmer weather, you may choose to stay at your home. Cool right?! But there’s a plus! The snow that we are talking about is not manmade but the real and actual snow! We know you want to see those places soon so to help you out we have listed the places where you can go and experience white Christmas for a couple of days.

1. Bear Valley

http://www.sfskifest.com/resorts/bear-valley/

It might be one of the most visited place in California during the holidays. Why? Because here you can really experience and see the snow falling from the sky and falling on your shoulder. Amazing right?! This place is perfect for those who wanted to Ski, Snowboard or to simply play with the snow. When the place is covered in snow, it really looks very smooth plus the ups and downs on the land makes it more exciting for skiers. Here, not only people from other states and countries go but also the people in California.

2. Idyllwild

https://www.pinterest.com/krha1/idyllwild-ca/

Idyllwild is a cozy little mountain top community located above the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County. The village here is really very beautiful. There is a snow in the place but unlike in Bear Valley, skiing is not allowed here since it is still a little bit rocky in the area. But if you’re the type who just want to see the snow, and wanted it to be a little less crowded, well, his is really the best place for you!

3. Soda Springs

https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Attraction_Review-g33191-d1026410-Reviews-Soda_Springs_Mountain_Ski_Resort-Truckee_Lake_Tahoe_California_California.html

Here is another location for those who wanted to ski, sled and snowboard. This can be found in Nevada County and had been a known destination for residents of NorCal. The place is enjoyed by the kids and the kids at heart. The tall trees around the place is also wonderful to look at since the leaves and branches are all covered in snow! Since the place is also near Donner Pass, you may also visit go and visit that place as well, it’s like shooting two birds in one bullet.

4. Mt. Baldy

https://mtnweekly.com/sports/snowboarding/where-to-find-snow-el-nino-winter-weather

If you want to experience snow but you want it to be near Orange County, well this place is just one and fifteen minute drive from the said place. It that short driving time you will already be able to play with snow and do some snow tubing. Also, unlike other mountain with snow, here, you don’t have to reach the top for you to enjoy playing as you may already see snow halfway up the mountain.

5. Mountain High

https://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g33294-d1013638-i59680561-Mountain_High_Resort-Wrightwood_California.html

If you want somewhere near LA, then this is the place. You’ll reach it within an hour drive from Los Angeles! The place is a ski resort found in the San Gabriel Mountains. Consist of of 3 resorts, this snowy haven offers a variety of lifts and terrains that is really appealing to the skiers. If you’re kids wanted to learn how to ski, snowboard and other activities, the resort is also home to an acclaimed Children’s Academy for kids. So now, your kids will learn to ski with professional trainers while you get to play around with the snow.

Isn’t California really a treasure? A very magical place that will allow you to stay warm on Holidays but will also let you enjoy the pleasure and happiness that snow can give to the child in you.

Disneyland’s Festival of Holidays 2017

Disneyland will never be left behind when it comes to celebration. It always has something magical to show its guest not just every year but as season change as well! Surprises are never ending. Everything is just so spectacular. Disneyland is just one of the must visit destination in California, may it be summer, may it be Halloween and especially during Christmas! This place will always be the most enchanted place anyone could ever be at.

https://www.traveltothemagic.net/christmas-holidays-disneyland-resort/

This holiday season, Disneyland will conduct the second year of The Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure! If you experienced the festival last year, you might get more excited this year as they also have something new to offer you! You know how great the event is, so now you have an idea on how amazing it could be this year. If you haven’t seen the said event, well, gear up! Disneyland is excited to show you what they got! It will surely one of the your most marvelous and extraordinary experience. This festival will be running in Disneyland’s resort from November 10, 2017 to January 7, 2018! Yes, it will run for two months so if you want to go but you don’t have time yet, no worries, you still have more than a month to see the magic!

https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2016/09/holidays-at-the-disneyland-resort-return-november-10-through-january-8-with-new-world-of-color-festival-of-holidays-and-more/

What’s with The Festival of Holidays? Well, TONS! A day might not be enough for you to experience everything it has to offer. There will be special entertainment, music and let’s not forget, incredibly amazing food! When we say special, it really is special as there will be a holiday version of the World of Color nighttime spectacular each day of the festival! Wonderful right?! The place will welcome you with The Festival of Holidays’ banner, entertainment banners, Disneyland California Adventure’s enormous Christmas tree and a Tasting Passport! Yes! That’s how amazing it will be, you’ll need a guide to try it all out!

http://unplugging.us/best-holiday-treats-at-disneyland/

What food are we talking about? Dishes, Snacks, Drinks! But since its Disneyland, expect it to be different. Different in the most picturesque, unique and delicious way possible! This year, there will be thirteen standalone marketplace booths that will make up the Festive Food Marketplace featuring several flavors of the holiday. Some booths last year will still be open like the Treats for Santa where you can buy a Warm Bourbon Cider or be creative and decorate your own cookie! There will also be nine new booths this year like Festive Holiday Extra that gave your regular side this a time to show off and make you taste how good it can be as a main dish. Another new booth is A Twist on Tradition, by the name itself, it will really give the traditional treat some wonderful twist! Your regular rolled cake will be called Yule Log and hey, it really has the Holiday feel as it is decorated by Christmas symbol and colors. And you might also want to try their Pumpkin-Spiced Float Cocktail. HHHMMMM!! Delicious Treats! Well, those are just few, there are more must try foods and drinks on the place! If you have tried something new and really good, please share it here so that other readers can try it as well!

http://dapsmagic.com/2017/11/princess-elenas-musical-grand-arrival-returns-for-festival-of-holidays-at-the-disneyland-resort/

Aside from the food, there are exciting activities that the kids and kids at heart will love. You must watch Princess Elena of Avalor’s Musical Grand Arrival that will take place around Paradise Bay several times each day. The Princess will arrive in an enchanting float surrounded by songs from her native land. Santa Claus will always be a part of these Holiday season and because of that, Disneyland wanted your kids to meet him in person! You may meet Santa Claus at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail. It’s not just Santa Claus that will make Redwood creek exciting but the place was also turned into a festive playground and outdoor activities. Since the festival will run ‘til January 7, there will also be a Three Kings Day Celebration. Latin American traditions will be honored in this three day celebration which will also include Children’s Activities and these activities includes crown decorating and beautiful displays.

http://dapsmagic.com/disney-viva-navidad-festival-of-holidays-disneyland-resor-15/

Good food plus magical activities, rides and decorations is really a Disneyland signature! So if you want to visit the place these Holidays, expect to be amazed in seeing Disneyland’s magic! Have a Happy Holidays!

5 Best Flea Markets in California

Since Christmas is coming and everyone in preparing, we know that you are now starting think if where you can buy good to great gifts that you will give to your loved ones. Some chooses to buy online because there are more option and variety but the chance for you to see its quality especially for new items to order just can’t be done. So if you want to buy online, do it in your most trusted shop. But, some still choose to buy in the mall though sometimes it’s crowded and items are expensive. Shopping malls are preferred by those who wanted to buy items at its best quality with enough budget to buy it. For those who have a tight budget but wanted to handpick the gifts that he will buy, flea markets are the best option.

Flea markets are set of small stalls or stores that are stationed in one area. Flea market are sometimes temporary. There are flea markets that closed down when it is not on season. But there are some flea markets that are already permanent on the place to serve the community not just for gifts for Christmas but also for your everyday need. In California, there are a lot of different flea markets, some has assorted items being sold and some has a theme, like for antiques, for clothes and etc.

We know you wanted to know where the best flea markets in California are. No worries, we have listed some of the best flea market to help you out!

1. Alemany Flea Market - San Francisco, CA

https://asideofsweet.com/things-to-do-bernal-heights-san-francisco/

This might not be one of the largest and most popular flea markets, but it houses a lot of valuable treasures. The items sold are not displayed in the best way possible but is randomly put on the time and they’ll let you find whatever it is that you might like. If you want to go to the place, make sure you drive and arrive early because the traffic might eat all of your time.

2. Jamestown Village Vintage Flea Market - Tustin, CA

https://www.fleamarketinsiders.com/california-flea-markets/

If you’re looking for vintage, antiques and classic items, this is a good place to go. It has a vast array of collectibles from all over Southern California. There are a lot of rare vintage finds in the place. From the smallest dolls to typewriters to old fashioned bikes! This flea market is a trip down to memory lane so you might want to buy something here for your grandparents. The place is only open every fourth Sunday of every month from 8am to 3pm.

3. De Anza College Flea Market – San Jose, CA

https://www.timeout.com/san-francisco/shopping/de-anza-college-flea-market

If you want to buy something that gives back, this is a pretty awesome choice. Proceeds from this flea market will benefit the students, you might be able to help someone to buy his needs in school or pay for his school fees. If you’re afraid that there might be few items here, no worries as there is a large variety of items sold in the place. How large? Well, items here goes from small toys to potted plants to delicious churros.

4. Arts District Flea Market – Los Angeles, CA

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/484840716112093091/

If you’re not into shopping along the street, under the sun’s heat then this is the place for you. This indoor market is 15,000 square feet housing local vendors and artists offering new and vintage items. Aside from the things you can find, the place is also lovable. You might love to take pictures here as well. This flea market is open thru Thursday to Sunday. Finding no items here to love is highly unlikely.

5. Melrose Trading Post – Melrose, CA

http://initialsla.com/melrose-trading-post/peintures/

This is another market that gives back. Items sold will benefit the teachers and students at the schools. Plus, there are a large variety of items as well. If you’re into painting and decorating your home or knows someone who does, this might be a perfect place to buy affordable art pieces. But, aside from art pieces, there are clothes, antiques, vintage collectibles and a lot more on the place. It’s not just that! As you may hear the sounds of local musicians and poets and be entertained by dancers and theatrical performances from community members. You will never feel tired of walking around with this type of entertainment!

Well, this is just five of the best flea markets in California and this are just from 5 cities. Some has more than one flea market in their place and there might be one great flea market near you. If you feel you know a place that is really good to buy stuffs at, please share it with us so we can help those who don’t know where to go as of this moment! 

20 Best Gift to Give This Christmas

Christmas is the season of giving. Well, a time to receive some as well. This is the perfect time for us to give something for the people who had been a great part of our year. A sign of thanking them for all the wonderful memories you shared together.

For some, gift giving are just for kids or the younger ones, but believe us, it’s not. Though Santa Clause only give gifts to the kids who became good kids for the whole year, we believe that all of the kids deserve to receive something, besides, it might make them feel more important that might turn them into better children in the future. But who will give the adults something? It may be their children, their friends, their partner or other relatives. It is very important that we give the people that we love something on Christmas, it doesn’t have to be bought or to be expensive, as long as it may show how essential they are to our lives it’s alright.

 But, finding the right gift is never easy especially if we really want to give them something that they can use. To help you out, we made a list of the best gift to give somebody this holiday season. To make it easier, we have classified it to the type of person it should be given to. The list are just ideas, you may follow it, you may look for something similar to it-especially for the ones with brands, or you may think of something you know will be more appropriate.

Here’s the list:

Gifts that gives back:

https://dappered.com/2011/07/the-splurge-toms-eyewear-classic-101/https://shop.dfsmag.com/product/mia-beach-tote/

1. Mia Beach Tote- This bag is environmental as it is made of recycled plastic. The bag is waterproof and is perfect for the beach.
2. TOMS Sunglasses- Since California is a sunny place, this gift is perfect for almost everyone, plus, you’ll be able to help as well if it will be the said brand. Purchase of TOMS sunglasses goes toward surgery, prescription glasses or medical treatment to help restore someone’s sight.

For Beauty and Make up enthusiast

https://www.makeup.com/ulta-urban-decay-naked-4some-set

3. Urban Decay Naked 4Some- This is a perfect gift for those who love putting make up, it doesn’t have to be the said brand. Naked make ups are on trend due to the desire of women for a makeup no makeup look.

For Babies, Toddlers and Kids

https://www.amazon.com/Lovable-Snowman-Hugger-Poseable-Arms/dp/B00DOODVT6https://www.toysrus.com/buy/magnetic-building/magformers-standard-rainbow-construction-set-63076-23805156https://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Huge-Rainbow-Kite-for-Kids-One-of-the-Best-Selling-Toys-for-Outdoor-Fun-Sports-Perfect/1704332_32767909776.html

4. Huggers- this are babies toys that they can play with without loosing it as it has a strap to be attached to their arms and wrist.
5. Magnaformers- it is a must have in kids travelling as kids loves to play with it due to its shape and easy stacking.
6. Huge Rainbow Kite- Yes, it’s Christmas but California’s weather is perfect for some kite flying and kids love anything huge.

For Outdoor Enthusiast

https://www.amazon.com/COOLING-TOWEL-Advanced-Hyper-Absorbent-Effective/dp/B00EE79EZM

7. Towels and wraps for keeping cool- It might be inexpensive but this will help the receiver to cool down during his day hike. It’s giving them a sense that you support them in thei passion but you want them to be safe.

For Drinkers of Wine, Gin, Whiskey

https://www.barproducts.com/the-rabbit-freezable-whiskey-glasses

8. Rabbit freezable whiskey glasses- Who doesn’t want a cold drink? This is a perfect gift for whiskey lovers but it doesn’t have to always be in the freezer so you may also give it to wine and gin lovers specially those who love special glasses.

For Craft Beer fans

https://www.hydroflask.com/beer

9. Russian River Hydro Flask- This will help their beer to be kept cold and hey, cold beers are tastier isn’t? It doesn’t have to be this brand but this brand is really a plus.

For Cooks

https://www.ocado.com/webshop/product/Cole--Mason-Derwent-Gourmet-Precision-Salt--Pepper-Mill-Set/218784011

https://aaanational.corporateperks.com/product/index/nxjid/2824_23162529/uSource/UNMLT

10. Cole and Mason Derwent Gourmet Precision Pepper Mill- this pepper mill might be the mill you needed all along. It is ergonomically designed, easy to refill and easy to adjust.
11. Taylor Instant-Read Digital Thermometer- this is an essential tool in cooking specially for those who loves grilling. This will help achieve a tender and juicy meat.

For Travel Lovers

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Dreampad-Music-Relaxation-Pillow-with-Intrasound-Technology-/252658339596

12. Dreampad Pillow Slim Support- any pillow is great but this one allows you to plug your phone for music. A good music can give you a relaxing and good night sleep.
13. Moon guides ‘Walks’ books- This is a good guide for those who loves travelling but hate too many crowd.

Handmade Gifts

http://www.dianecottonjewelry.com/new-gallery/

14. Diane Cotton Jewelry- this one is a bit pricey but it is perfect for those who are into jewelry but like it more in stones, pearls, etc. rather than gold and silver. This necklaces looks vintage and that makes it extra special.

For the Fashionables

https://www.shopremedyroad.com/products/thirty-one-bits-shorebreak-necklace

15. Thirty One Bits necklaces- this is a cheaper piece of jewelry, but what makes it special is from what it is made of. The vibrant beaded jewelry is made of mostly recycled paper, rolled by hand by fair wage artisans in Uganda and Indonesia and sealed with a water based finish.

For Her

https://poshmark.com/listing/SOLD-TOMS-Jutti-Flats-Natural-Burlap-NIB-56d38b5e6a583031fb05b6d1

https://www.shape.com/shop/marc-fisher-ltd-womens-marc-fisher-ltd-yuna-over-the-knee-boot-size-7-m-red-p4bada7c7a9a2c0a22ed5c9e92f3242ed.html

16. TOMS Jutti flats- this shoes is very special due to its design and it is perfect for fast walkers because unlike the other flats, it has rubber out-sole.
17. Marc Fisher LTD. Yuna over-the-knee boot- who doesn’t want to wear boots? The shape makes the legs appear longer, and the warm, dark red hue adds the perfect flash of color to enliven any holiday outfit.

For Him

https://www.lyst.com/shop/mens-coach-cases/

https://www.ablogtowatch.com/louis-vuitton-tambour-horizon-luxury-smartwatch-means-watch-industry/

18. Coach card case in Wild Beast- this card case is just so manly! As the leather gives it a more rugged and traditional look.
19. Tambour Horizon watch by Louis Vuitton- this one is expensive, as in extremely pricey, but is really perfect for those who deserve it. This is the brand’s first ever smart watch.

For Home Décor

https://trovatistudio.com/products/richmond-alarm-clock

20. Pendulux Richmond alarm clock- though we have phones to wake us up nowadays, this one can be a perfect décor as well. This alarm clock delivers a lot more character to a nightstand than the coolest iPhone, and it’s only four inches high.

We hope we were able to help you out and gave you some ideas on what to buy for your loved ones. Have a happy holiday!

Your Thanksgiving Classics Just Became A Unique Ice Cream Treat

Thanksgiving is one of the most awaited holidays in every year. This is one of the best time to eat dinner as a family and not think of the stress of school and/or your work. Well, aside from that, during thanksgiving there are lots of delicious food served on the table waiting for you to eat them, isn’t that exciting?! Just thinking of what meal will you be having for thanksgiving will already make you feel thrilled for that day to come. But there are foods that had been a thanksgiving tradition that we will be expecting to be present.

Turkey might be one of thanksgiving’s mainstay. Though it’s not the tastiest treat and not even the most affordable meal to serve, it is still being practiced to have it on the dining table during thanksgiving. But why did it became a thanksgiving symbol? Based on studies, Americans preferred to have large poultry for celebrations and birds could be slaughtered without a great economic sacrifice unlike other animals that can be used as farm helpers. Also, among other birds, Turkey is the most ideal for fall feasts. Turkeys born in the spring would spend about seven months eating insects and worms on the farm, growing to about 10 pounds by Thanksgiving. According to an article, the typical menu of turkey with gravy, stuffing, and plum pudding was popularized by Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, published in 1843 and widely read in the United States.

We are all aware that nowadays new food creations are out in the market. There are several more varieties of flavors and treats that are being produced. This thanksgiving, Turkey won’t be left behind when it comes to having new variety. This is not just a new recipe for your roasted Turkey nor a new dish with Turkey as the main ingredient but an entirely new Turkey Treat. It is the Turkey Flavored ice cream. Yes, your favorite cold dessert is flavored with a thanksgiving symbol. This treat is sold by Salt and Straw every thanksgiving.

https://www.timeout.com/san-francisco/restaurants/salt-straw

Salt and Straw can be found in several locations in San Francisco and Los Angeles. The business started by its owner’s dream of having his own ice cream scoop shop. Luckily, he have a cousin that is studying culinary and has been creating and testing different ice cream. His cousin eventually moved to Portland and became the shops head ice cream maker. Since then, they spent days creating flavors and new recipe for their ice cream. All the time, money, effort and experience brought them to where they are now. Their ice creams received great reviews from several food magazines already. What is nice about this shop is not just their creations but their kindness to their customers and the community.

https://www.thrillist.com/news/nation/thanksgiving-ice-cream-salt-straw

During thanksgiving, the shop’s Turkey ice cream is a must try. If you haven’t tasted it yet, you’ll be amazed of the flavors that were mixed together. The ice cream comes in a sweet and salty taste and while eating it, you’ll be able to taste the flavor of your entire roasted Turkey. You’ll be able to taste the caramelized onions, the Turkey’s juices and the Turkey itself. Aside from that, you will also encounter some handmade Turkey skin brittle. It might sound weird but once you’re at it, you might say that you have never thought that Turkey can be this good as a dessert! Isn’t something you want to put on the table this thanksgiving for a change?!

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/jeninehartnett/ice-cream/

If you decide to buy some to serve this holiday, you might also want to try their other thanksgiving treat. Yes, they have more thanksgiving specials! This store really out done their creations! They have Buttered Mashed Potatoes & Gravy. This is one of the most savory treat according to the owner as of now. As the mashed potato were starched and mixed with their homemade gravy fudge. This ice cream is dense, creamy and tasty. They also have Spiced Goat Cheese and Pumpkin Pie that is worth trying. There’s a few more holidays specials but if you’re not into some adventure when it comes to food, you might love their classic flavors as well.

So, if you want something new, unique but a tasty dessert to serve this holiday season, go and grab your ice cream pints now. You’ll not regret trying it out!

Enjoy your Thanksgiving Treat!