"You Haven't Updated Your Blob Lately"

I know, dad...and it's a "blog," not a "blob."

I apologize to all for being so out of the blogging loop. Two weeks into work, I am happily wearing more hats than I started with. I'm the third grade co-teacher, the Spanish Enrichment teacher, the new fourth grade math teacher, and the assistant in the nursery school's Science Enrichment program. I'm busy working, working out, socializing, and just living my life and honing in on what's really important and what truly makes me happy. Here are some hot spots that put the happy in my happiness:

El Compadre 7408 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles 90046

An abundance of chips and salsa, flaming margaritas (literally served en fuego), and a delicious variety of Mexican food. The environment is lively and the restaurant is jammed, so be sure to make a reservation before you go. A great place to go with friends for a good meal and good times. Street parking only, so check out those street signs; them parking guys are vicious.

Vito's Pizza 846 N. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles 90069

Absolutely the best pizza in L.A. The pizza only comes in one size (large) with a thin crust and huge slices. The baked zitti is out of this world. 27 years of living in this city (well, 22 1/2, if you count college and studying abroad), and I finally find a pizza joint that's worth each and every calorie. The most surprising part? It's cheap! For a massivo pizza and large order of pasta, a mini salad, including delivery and tip, the bill will run you about $30. Mind you, this amount of food could feed a group of four...my brother and I ate it all ourselves. Stomach cramps, ahoy! Oh, and don't forget the Toppings.

Versailles Cuban Restaurants L.A. and the Valley

This place is an L.A. secret. With the motto "Cuban food at its best!" Versailles never disappoints. It's a favorite in my family, and we enjoy the chicken, pork, and fish. Try not to fill up on the garlic bread when you get there, 'cause you'll be upset you didn't have enough room for the main dishes. The ambiance is casual and laid back and reservations are accepted. This is one of those places you never think to go to right off the bat, even though it always hits the spot. Beware of the garlic -- it's potent! So try not to burp or breathe in a public venue. People will notice.

Joan's on Third 8350 1/2 West Third St., Los Angeles 90048

Hands down, the best mac n' cheese I've ever had. Ever. Go during the day to see and be seen; go at night to avoid the crowd.

Jersey Mike's Subs 7100 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood 90046

Well, kids, my uncle did it again. With his first franchise booming in Northridge, he has opened a second location in the Target shopping center (Santa Monica and La Brea) that's already generating a buzz. Lines out the door in both locations, Jersey Mike's is surpassing Subway and Quiznos on the sandwich homefront. My all-time favorite is still the #7, add salami, Mike's way, no tomatoes. Don't forget to add a cookie and/or a brownie to your sandwich, chips, and soda. Nip that post-lunch sweet craving in the bud!

Fryman Canyon Intersection of Fryman and Laurel Canyon, Studio City

A 3-mile hike that's great to do solo or with some friends. Last Friday I hiked it on my own, stopping at a bench mid-way to do 90 tricep dips (which way to the gun show?). I walked uphill and ran downhill, not once regretting that I braved the workout in the blazing heat. The views are beautiful and the trail is empty during the week. I look forward to crossing paths with you there soon.

Even though I mostly blog about food and working out, I'd like to add notable mentions to two L.A. standouts:

Prix Body Adornment 8776 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood

Don't tell anyone but, last Thursday, my piercing count jumped from seven to eight, thanks to my girl E and Roger, the best piercer I've even been to. I read reviews about Roger on Yelp and, coincidentally, he ended up being our piercer. Although the piercing prices are steep (the price includes jewelry), the service is well worth it. Roger clearly explained the entire piercing procedure, alleviating any questions, concerns or fears we may have had. This was also the least painful of any of my piercings, proving that good piercers know how to make the process comfortable (well, as comfortable as it can be) and worth it. I highly recommend Roger for any future piercings you may crave. He's fantastic.

Tina Nails 8371 West Third Street, Los Angeles 90048

My new favorite place to get my nails did. Efficient, clean, cheap, and friendly, each woman who works here does a great job. If you dig acrylics, Tina does the best in L.A.; they're thin, natural-looking, and beautiful. Tina always remembers customers by name and makes you feel welcome as she says, "Pick a cullah." One of my favorite parts about the pedicures is the hot towel they throw on your legs after the massage. Mmm. Walk-ins welcome and appointments accepted no more than a day in advance.

L'shana tovah!

I'm in LA, Trick!

The Banana Pudding at Toast: Well worth the $6.95 and bazillion calories

One of my favorite things about living in the city is the plethora of opportunities at my fingertips. It's pretty rare if I have to get in a car to experience great food, a good workout, or a new wardrobe (hey, I can't help it if Old Navy's workout clothes are on sale). I walk everywhere and discover new and exciting things every day. Here are some of my newest LA finds:

A.O.C. 8022 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles 90048

To quote a dear friend, "A.O.C. - A.O.Amazing!" This was my second time trying A.O.C. and it had been about three or four years since the first time I tried it. I indulged here with three of my closest friends, and we - so "Sex and the City" like - chatted over wine and small plates filled with cheese, salads, vegetables, fish, and, of course, dessert. The roasted dates with parmesan and bacon were out of this world, as were the beet salad and farro and black rice with pinenuts and currants. This is a great place to go with a small group of friends or on a date, and they even have a private terrace upstairs which would be great for parties. This place is pricey, but well worth every penny. And the wine list has something to satiate everyone's palate.

Boss Sushi 268 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills 90211

Sushi is my favorite food, by far, and Boss did no less than impress. Try the Princess Camille, Beverly Hills 90211 and Rainbow Dragon rolls. The portions are huge. The seaweed salad and green tea are great too. Parking in back or try a meter in front (free after 6p). They accept reservations, but they're not always necessary. Yet another great sushi joint in LA. You got it, Boss!

Toast Bakery Cafe 8221 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles 90048

If you try eating here anytime before 2p.m. any day of the week, don't expect to immediately snag a table. This place is PACKED! Whether it's the food, the location, or the celeb spottings (isn't that Scarlett Johansson??), there's something special that puts Toast on the edible map. I've been here a few times and always seem to order the Garden Salad: mixed greens, sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese, pinenuts, strips of grilled garden burger, and house vinagrette dressing. I recommend the half portion, since the regular size is massive. Now don't get me started on the dessert. They have this birthday cake thing, which is vanilla cake with buttercream frosting, and I would make it walk down the aisle with me if it could. I was also introduced to the banana pudding (see pic above) the other day by my love, Liza. This pudding is to die for!! Liza and I split it and chomping through the layers was like unwrapping each of the eight Chanukah presents: the very top is Oreo cookies; the second layer is banana pudding; the third layer is Oreo crumbs; the fourth later is banana chunks; and the fifth later is all that shit mixed together. OMFG! Amazing! I had a ginormous tummy ache later that night, although the pain was well worth it. Is that a banana in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?

Toppings Yogurt 349 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills 90211

Ma Nishma? Toppings is both a fantastic yogurt spot and a Kosher eater's delight. So many Chosen People -- I love it!! It's always nice to connect with your peeps while satisfying your belly. This place is, apparently, along the lines of Menchie's, where you serve yourself and pay by the ounce. Great yogurt selections and even better toppings. You might find it beneficial to put the toppings on the bottom and the top. Try the coconut yogurt bottomed and topped (that's what he said) with rainbow sprinkles, heath bar, cheesecake bites and chocolate chip cookie dough balls. Yeah, that's right, I put all that on my yogurt. I also really enjoy the peanut butter yogurt, my cousin's fiancee likes the mint, and my cousin and brother like the chocolate. A lot of something for everyone at a totally reasonable price. How can you complain? You fill it up yourself!

Now, I know you're probably thinking, "My lord, woman, STOP EATING!!" Well, my friends, if you are dedicated readers and have been following me from the start, you will know that I eat hard and exercise hard. Although I don't deprive myself of delicious eats, most days are spent eating vegetables, fruit, tofu, and brown rice. I also workout five-to-six days a week and have added a personal trainer to the mix. A BIG shout out to my trainer, Tracie Hendricks, who kicks my ass into shape and never lets me quit. For more information on how you can link up with Tracie, feel free to contact me directly.

If you ever wonder how I crank out all this witty jargon, I do it by sitting with my laptop in my living room or at some type of a coffee shop, pop in my earbuds, and listen to Pandora or ITunes. Try this one on for size: Dance is Dead (Tocadisco Remix) by Boosta. Enjoy!