rodeo drive

The last few days I traveled to Los Angeles for work. For a few years,  I managed our West Coast Kroger divisions for SC Johnson but this trip was to say goodbye.... I transitioned this business over to my Manager who has now taken over this responsibility since I accepted a promotion a few months back. I enjoy traveling to LA mainly for the weather but also what there is to do after we get our work done. 

I've had the opportunity to eat in the West Hollywood area, visit the Santa Monica Pier, eat overlooking the Ocean in Laguna Beach and now, during my last trip, I strolled down the most beautiful and expensive strip of shopping in the World, the infamous...Rodeo Drive. "I've got money to spend here!" claimed Julie Roberts in Pretty women when snubbed at a boutique. I see how she felt. This street was incredibly luxe but my manager and I tried to fit in quite nicely as we stopped into Burberry and made just a "litte" purchase for Elle. (my Mother would be huffing at this purchase) -I had to. It was just too cute. I won't tell Elle she ever owned anything Burberry. I certainly don't want that to become a habit or for her to grow up thinking you need brand names. Too pretentious- although I do like nice things. I think everyone should have one nice item that will last them years- a handbag, a scarf, a good pair of leather gloves. But other then that, Target will do just fine. Jodi and I made our way to the Beverly Wilshire hotel and walked into the lobby just like in Pretty Woman. It was beautiful. We even grabbed a glass of wine at the hotel bar. Great people watching. The street was decorated beautifully for the Holidays.

Although travel is becoming more difficult now that I have a child, I do still enjoy it. Especially with my Manager, she is wonderful. She gives me great advice and truly will listen to my heartbreak. She doesn't get bored with it. She understands and is supportive. Having a manager that not only supports you professionally and personally makes you want to do a better job because there is such a high level of respect. Compassion and understanding are two qualities I hope for in a manager, mainly due to what happened last year, and I am lucky to say my Manager has them. Makes life just a little easier.....

Goodbye California...I've enjoyed your incredible weather, good food, people watching and shopping these past several years......

~Melissa