In search of...

Last weekend my sister invited my mom and I to downtown. Usually when we go its because we are in search of something. This particular instance we were in search of a spoon. I'm not talking about any regular ordinary spoon, that would be crazy. See my sister was in search of spoon that would be long enough and wide enough to reach the bottom of a huge pot of posole. A spoon that would scoop the ideal proportion of hominy, meat and juice. So on Saturday around 11:00 a.m. we jumped on the freeway and headed to downtown. I'm never one to object to a downtown trip so I was ready to go as soon as it was suggested. 

In search of this special spoon our first stop would be 9th Street.  This street is know for endless options of party supplies, cooking supplies and food vendors. Knowing that their would be a wide variety of street vendors, we skipped breakfast and decided to eat on 9th Street. The trouble would be deciding on what to eat.   

Fruit in a cup, maybe for a snack? We'll circle back. 

Ice Cream? We should probably have food first. 

Garbanzo beans? Hmm that's an interesting option. 

Shrimp and Cheese? That's an interesting combo. 

Fruit juices, to quench your thirst?

Still need food before dessert. 

I would normally go for a hot dog, but with so many options I decided to skip it this time. 

I think Ice cream is a favorite on 9th Street. 

Annnnd... I think we have a winner! We went with this vendor she had a wide selection of tacos, pupusas, quesadillas, gorditas, hot dogs and fruit juices. 

I went with a Gordita! The lady gave me the option of putting whatever I wanted, so I picked carne asada as the meat, nopales, grilled onions, lettuce, green salsa, cheese, and sour cream. For a drink I had strawberry juice. It was the PERFECT meal!!! Insert drooling emoji. 

My mom went with a pupusa. 

My sister went with pupusa, taco and for a drink she had the spinach pineapple juice. Needless to say we were all happy! So our spoon search continued. 

Yes, those are reindeer piñatas on top of a crate of toilet paper. 

See.

If you are planning a Mexican theme party, 9th Street is the place to go!

Or if you are having any type of party that requires a piñata, 9th Street is the place to go! 

Once we found the special posole spoon we went to the fashion district and did some shopping and then headed home. On our way home we saw the most beautiful sunset. It should be noted that the sunset photo has no filter. 

If you would like to see my other downtown post check these out:

1. My DTLA Favorites

2. CicLAvia

3. Heritage

4. Night on Broadway

5. Flower Mart Finds

6. Museum Day

7. ...when it was in the 80's & not a cloud in the sky.

8. Stainless Steel Curves

9. Lucky

P.s. These photos were taken on my iPhone and edited with a Color Story app. 

Heritage

Hispanic heritage month end this Wednesday, so along with three other Hispanics we headed to the most popular place in Los Angeles that represents the Hispanic community, El Pueblo/Olvera Street. 

My parents came from Mexico to the United States and have lived in California for more than half of their lives. Living in Los Angeles I was exposed to my Mexican heritage on the regular. As a kid, my sister and I had your typical toys every girl had, you know Barbies, Barbie's Dream House, Rainbow Brite, My Little Pony, Cabbage Patch Kids, okay you get it we were spoiled. But we also had things that represent our Mexican heritage. 

I know I had a small leather purse and a Oaxacan style rag doll...

and lets not forget the ceramic piggy bank.

We grew up watching telenovelas and comedy series that are  timeless classics. These pencil toppers were crafted to resemble those funny characters that every Mexican knows. 

We ate candies that were dipped in chili powder

and candy made from peanuts. 

Walking around El Pueblo/Olvera street I noticed that the Mexican culture is so colorful.I guess I never really paid much attention but how could I have never noticed, I mean look at these guitars!

I didn't do any shopping during my visit but I think I have to go back and pick up some items. I was eyeing the popular stripped serapes...

perhaps a floral table runner, look at those colors...

or some hand painted mugs to drink hot chocolate? 

Before I wrap things up here, I should mention the amazing leather products made in Mexico. I fell in love these clutches...

and this purse!! 

I was also reminded of the corn husk calla lilies, so colorful and pretty. I definitely need these in my home. 

Oh and if you find yourself wandering El Pueblo, be sure to stop at "Mr. Churro". They have some delicious churros filled with cajeta, strawberry, lechera milk  or any other yummy fillings that will make your mouth water. 

 I am proud to say I am Hispanic and these pictures represent my colorful Mexican culture. If you would like more information on El Pueblo/Olvera street click here.