Most-Loved Classic Films

If you have a hankering for some classic cinema, pop in one of these much-adored favorites. All skillfully acted by some of the biggest names in film history, these films will transport you back in time:

The Best Years of Our Lives
Directed by William Wyler, this film tells the story of three soldiers returning home after the end of World War II. This film lets you glimpse into what it must have really been like when the GIs returned home after WWII. This film allows you to see the lives of average people with typical struggles who face the problems of adjusting to life after such a war.

Rebecca
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, this movie is an adaptation of a book by renowned author, Daphne DuMaurier. It begins with a simple romance between a poor, plain girl and a wealthy titled gentlemen, however, as the movie continues, you are led down a path that turns into something far more sinister than you could have imagined.

Philadelphia Story
This delightful comedy brought Katharine Hepburn back into the spotlight as a great screen actress. This movie still rings true today as it portrays our insatiable desire to know what society's elite do in their private lives. The story begins when a journalist and photographer show up to write a story about Katharine Hepburn’s character’s impending marriage to a stuffy businessman. Joined by film icons, Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart, this film is a crowd pleaser for the ages.

Mrs. Miniver
Directed by William Wyler, this much loved film also served as a powerful piece of war propaganda during WWII. The sultry Greer Garson, who was offered the role after Norma Shearer refused it, initially balked at the idea of playing the mother of a college age boy, but was later convinced she was the right woman for the part.  She was later recognized with an Oscar for her performance in the film.

Laura
This intriguing mystery is one of the most stylish, captivating, elegant, and witty film noirs ever made. With an outstanding ensemble cast of characters, this thriller will leave you guessing until its final moments. An original poster hailed the film as: "The story of a love that became the most fearful thing that ever happened to a woman."

Z Pizza: Slices of Health

Pizza lovers can now partake without guilt, thanks to Z Pizza’s good-for-you alternative to American’s favorite greasy, carb-loaded party entree. Founded in the art colony of Laguna Beach, Z Pizza is committed to serving up slices that are flavorful, fresh, and organic. Good pizza starts with the crust, and here you'll enjoy a thin whole wheat crust baked to perfection. Z Pizza also offers regular and gluten-free crust options. Sauce options include organic tomato sauce and basil pesto, topped with mozzarella or vegan cheese. The plentiful vegetable choices here typically comprise organic, local ingredients!

Z Pizza
121 E. Memory Lane
Suite D-3
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 564-9166

The Olde Ship: A Voyage to London

To be transported to Britain, hop aboard The Olde Ship. While not technically an actually ship, the pub replicates the haul of an old-timey boat with dark wooden beams criss-crossing the ceiling; long, sleek tables; and antique decorations. Run by a British couple, The Olde Ship offers pleasingly authentic pub fare and ale for lunch and dinner. Many locals enjoy stopping in the friendly atmosphere for a bottle of British brew, including Boddingtons, Smithwicks, Abbott Ale, and Blackthorn Cider. The bartender is happy to guide newcomers through the delicious creamy beers. The daily menu offers up hearty options like fish and chips, lamb shank, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, and steak and kidney pie (for the daring). Stick around for raucous viewings of live soccer games and live jazz on the weekends.

The Olde Ship
1120 W. 17th Street
Santa Ana, CA 92706
(714) 550-6700

Simple Stress Relievers

Stress is something that can affect us at any age. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, and are looking to relieve your stress, we’ve got some simple solutions for you. Below are helpful suggestions to help reduce stress and bring more calm back to your life.

  • Journaling has been proven to bring several health benefits, including stress relief. Take a moment in a quiet place to write down your worries and clear your head – just getting your thoughts on paper will make you feel instantly better. Then, begin a list of what you’re grateful for to switch your attitude into a more positive place.
  • Breathing exercises can be performed anywhere and provide convenient and simple stress relief. Focus on the breath for a few minutes as you smooth out and elongate your inhales and exhales, and feel your stress melt away.
  • Laughter is a fabulous tension reliever, and it also brings about positive physiological changes. Put on your favorite funny movie or TV show, or call up a friend who always makes you laugh and giggle your worries away.
  • Meditation brings both short-term stress relief as well as long-lasting stress management. If you’re new to meditation, find a quiet place to sit and begin by focusing on the breath, drawing it in and out through your nose. See if you can count 10 breaths without the mind wandering off.
  • Yoga combines breathing and meditation with light exercise. One yoga class can leave you feeling instantly better, and a consistent practice will bring about greater resiliency to stress. If you’re new to yoga, look for a “gentle yoga” class or one that says it’s “restorative”.
  • Music can change your physiology in amazing ways – if you’re feeling run-down, put on a soothing CD and allow the calming tones to seep in. If you’re interested, you can also make an appointment for a music therapy session, which can help with a variety of stress-related issues.
  • Mild Exercise, such as walking, is a great stress reliever that can work in no-time. Stepping out and taking a walk provides you with a change of scenery, which can get you into a different frame of mind altogether. Plus, you reap the benefits of exercise as well.

Happy Labor Day!

Wishing you a very happy and relaxing Labor Day!

Timeless Oscar-Winning Films

If you’re longing to watch a memorable classic film from the good old days, these films cannot be beat. These Oscar-winning standouts continue to make an impression today.

The Philadelphia Story
This classic tale, starring Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, and Jimmy Stewart, who won the Best Actor Oscar for his role, is a charming comedy that traces the ups-and-downs of a wealthy heiress’s love life as she plans her wedding. The follies and foibles that follow are sure to leave you laughing!

Rebecca
This haunting tale, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, will leave you guessing until the very end! The film won Best Picture in 1940, and continues to captivate and thrill audiences to this day.

Yankee Doodle Dandy
James Cagney, better known for his gangster roles, won the 1942 Best Actor Oscar for his role in this movie. The movie tells the story of George M. Cohan, replete with song and dance!

The Best Years of Our Lives
Best Picture winner of 1946, this film recounts the stories of World War II veterans as they return home from the war. Their hardships are retold in a poignant tale that remains relevant to this day.

How Green Was My Valley
This touching coming-of-age story is set in a Welsh mining town. Adapted from a wonderful novel, this moving tale won the Best Picture Oscar in 1941. Before you settle in to watch, be sure to have some tissues ready.

Special Promotion!

Please call to see how you can get 1 month free rent on select apartments. For a limited time only.

Sushi Muraski: Sushi Art

When you step into Sushi Muraski, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered a cool, modern oasis. The chic interior alone can attract a large clientele. Of course, Sushi Muraski is more than just superficially pleasing. The restaurant’s two owners have been studying the craft of sushi making for more than 30 years. They bring this expertise to every roll at Muraski, artfully balancing the fish, wasabi, and perfectly cooked rice. The dining area is arranged to accommodate both intimate dates and large parties. Lunch offers reasonably priced combination plates of rolls, a teriyaki dish, rice, and more. Dinner holds a wide variety of exotic hot and cold fish appetizers and artful sashimi rolls including albalone, raw octopus, and jumbo clam. Finish the meal off with a drink from the wide selection of sake.

Sushi Murasaki
2901 W. MacArthur Boulevard
Suite 108
Santa Ana, CA 92704
(714) 241-1000 

Sleep Better Tonight!

If you have trouble sleeping, or don't feel rested in the morning, you're not alone. Thousands of people suffer from poor sleep and insomnia, but that doesn't mean you're destined for sleepless nights forever! Check out these simple, easy tips that you can incorporate into your lifestyle today.

  • Avoid screens before bed. iPads, smartphones, and TVs can disrupt your body's natural cycle, making it hard to fall asleep and difficult to stay asleep
  • Try to go to bed at the same time each night, and to wake up at the same time each morning. A regular routine can establish a good rhythm for your body.
  • Read a book or a magazine right before bed. The energy it takes to read the printed page can help you relax gently into sleep.
  • Don't drink caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime. We all know coffee can keep you awake, but alcohol impacts restful sleep as well
  • Do some light exercise. Exercise in general may help get better sleep, but it's better to do some light stretching than to do full-on cardio in the hours before bedtime.

Have You Heard These Classic Jazz Records?

If you’re longing for the soulful tunes of days-gone-by, you’re not out of luck. Stock your CD shelves or fill your iPod with these classic jazz albums that will offer you a musical trip back in time.

  • Free Jazz by Ornette Coleman
  • Blue Train, John Coltrane
  • Night at the Village Vanguard, Sonny Rollins
  • Takin Off, Herbie Hancock
  • A Love Supreme, John Coltrane
  • Getz/Gilberto, Stan Getz
  • Hello Dolly, Louis Armstrong

Pin It on Pinterest