Late Night Spot- Studio City

My boyfriend and I were looking for a late night spot to dine the other night in Studio City and came across a Mexican restaurant full of nightlife called Mexicali.

So the food isn't the most amazing thing but the pros about this place is that it's open late (open until 1am even on weekdays) AND prices arn't to out of control. It is also a great place to hang out for twenty- thrityish crowd. Admittedly, it is a little noisy since it's probably the few decent night spots available. Also be warned that service isn't spectacular either. BUT, if you're looking for a late night spot with a fun atmosphere that's reasonable- this fits the bill

I got a cup of Tortilla soup for $3.70 on their menu. Another tip is to come Monday night when their whole menu is 30% off.

Mexicali Cocina Cantina
12161 Ventura Blvd
Studio City, CA 91604-2515
Phone: (818) 985-1744

CVS Brand Products

This is probably not a big secret but in case you are not aware of CVS branded products which basically include everything under the sun- I'm more focusing on their toiletry/household products.

Unlike other store brand products which try to rival mainstream brands, CVS actually maintains a high level of quality and similarity to mainstream products. I love CVS products- and I've tried a whole range of them from their Neutrogena Deep Clean Cleanser knock off, to all kinds of lotions, to body washes, etc etc- their standards are pretty high. Even if they are not the "real deal" they do a pretty damn good job- so next time you run out of lotion or toilet paper, buy the CVS store brand and save a couple bucks :)

The first entry

Living is not cheap, especially living in California. My mom told me of her days of youth shortly after she graduated from UCLA in the mid seventies. She started with a salary of $12,000 which she reckons in her days was decent (I find that hard to believe since that seems like nothing these days). She could afford to live on the westside in her OWN apartment, eat out , go "fun" shopping, and travel all on that budget.

I only dream of that kind of lifestyle these days. Salaries have definitely not kept up with rising costs of living and even though I make what could be considered a decent salary for a kid just out of school I still feel a tug every month. Gas is near $4.00 per gallon, minimum wage is $8.00. This means people on a minimum wage salary only are barely able to pay for their transportation alone, if that.

I wish I had a passion for politics and I wish I could change the way things are. I don't see myself in the near future being able to turn this around. I can only hope that whoever is our future president will take this challenge on. What I have decided to do in the mean time is start my "Frugality" blog to keep track of all saving money tactics I've come across. Whether shopping wisely, good but reasonable restaurants, tips, free services- whatever it may be I'll try to make note of it. I know it's not much, but maybe it will help some of you- at least those in the socal region.

Let's just see how this goes :)