A Day Out in Metro L.A., Part Five

Most women enjoy shopping. If you want to put a smile on her face brighter than LAPD's night bird, then here's a day for you to shine.

The Floral Arrangement

Rise and shine early Saturday morning at about 4:00 am. Pour on the charm. Use your superior negotiating skills to convince her that getting her up that early on a Saturday morning will be worth it. Find a 7 Eleven for coffee and Twinkies. The trip inside the store will help to invigorate her. She's still holding your feet to the fire about the early rise, but trust me partna, this is a three point shot and a free throw and a technical and the ball out on the side; a touchdown with a two point conversion; a hat trick and you get to keep all of your teeth. I'm telling you, you will score big time.

You're heading to the LA Floral District, downtown at 7^th and Wall Street. This is where florists and vendors purchase their flowers and plants. The stores are open to the public as well. It can get a little chaotic down there, so around 5:00 am is a good ETA. Some of the smaller outlets may let you in earlier. The street parking can be brutal if you're lucky. Its much easier to just tie your horse to a post in one of the nearby parking structures. Check prices at more than one outlet before you buy. She will be all jazzed up with her arms (and yours) full of flowers purchased at near wholesale prices. Your treat of course, she can have fresh flowers in every room of her crib. Keep the flowers out of the sun if you're not going back home right away. You can't go wrong if you just happened to be equipped with a large ice chest containing a little ice and water to help keep the flowers fresh. It's halftime - what's your score?

It suits her just fine.

Since you're down in the district, check out the clothing too. Instead of looking at women's apparel, head over to Los Angeles Street to look at men's suits and shoes. She will enjoy seeing you try on suits. If you're an early bird customer, you may be able to barter with some of the store bosses. Hold your ground or go to another shop. There are several nearby lingerie outlets, so be on the lookout. Relax during a Mexican breakfast on Olvera Street located at Cesar Chavez Blvd., and Alameda Street.

Before you leave downtown check out Angels Flight. It just reopened. It's a historic funicular railway atop Bunker Hill. The cost to ride is 25 cents. Just below the Flight is Grand Central Market, an international market with fruit, vegetables, poultry, fish and meats from around the world.

She's sleepy now. You too. Return home, take a nap while she marvels over the flowers. An early sushi dinner with plum saketini can be the capper.