Alicia "Miss Ali" H.'s Profile
Date
Murrieta, CA 92562
(951) 304-7757
Ramona-Firestone Tire
Categories:
Tires,
Auto Repair
My ole beater of a Mazda Protege was serviced regularly for a year or so and then one day it up and nearly croaked on me. I had it towed (thanks AAA) to Ramona Tire and they told me that sure, I could pay them over $1000 to fix the head gaskets and some other problems but they felt it would only be a temporary fix. They believed the engine was about to check out and didn't feel comfortable doing all that work for me when I'd have to put even more money into it. Although I was stressed and unaware as to what I was going to do next, I was floored with their honesty and thanked them.
Somehow I managed to get my POS car to a dealer and picked up a decent used car. Within the first month I took it in for an oil change and bought the lifetime alignment for my new baby. The lifetime alignment has been awesome, especially for the three years I lived in Menifee along some crazy tore up roads. Every time I drop my car off with Ramona Tire for an oil change and alignment they're friendly, and unless I come in the afternoon, they finish the job relatively quickly. They never push me to get something done, but they do the brake check and if there is an issue they bring it to my attention. Most of the time I've been pretty broke ass and so they give me a sheet with the issues, suggested parts and labor prices, priority I should take care of them and leave it at that. When they say "your front brakes will last you about six more months" they're pretty spot on.
As much as I love my car, she (yes...it's a woman, trust me. And her name is Mo), went through a period where she didn't want to keep her tires on. So, the really nice sport tires that came on the car were eventually replaced over a year, all at Ramona Tire. A flat tire here, a low tire there, and then one day we went flying off the freeway into bushes and two tires came off the rims. Yet in every instance these guys had my tire replaced (or popped back on) with no hassle, and sometimes not charging me for everything they did.
I have no idea why everyone else had such a bad experience with this location, but I'm glad I didn't. I've gone to Jiffy Lube and ended up stranded on the 91 in Corona at night because someone didn't reconnect a tube right, and I've had my system fried by a Wal-mart tech because they put the battery in wrong. So, needless to say, I stick with the guys who have continually done what I paid them to do (even when front hood wouldn't pop open and they had to fenangle it underneath).
Murrieta, CA 92563
(951) 894-1515
Date Springs Optometry
Categories:
Optometrists,
Ophthalmologists
I haven't had a new pair of glasses in six years and my pair I had once loved so dearly had broken and been glued back together far too many times in the last year. Around Christmas I started getting some serious headaches when I wore my glasses so I could tell I needed some new ones.
I dug out my vision card (Vision Plan of America) and looked up the various eye doctors on the approved list. There were a couple really close to me in Temecula, but I checked out reviews on Yelp and I looked around the web some more until I found Dr. Kowalski's office. Simple things like having a well maintained website and a Facebook page mattered to me as I wanted someone keeping up with technology. When I called I was able to get an appointment within two days and in the morning before work. I loved that I was able to go to their web site and download the patient information sheet to fill out before the appointment. Much more convenient and I got the "ooh, I'm a big girl all prepared" feeling.
Now, the office. First, I must exclaim how much I loved how the office is set up. The windows bring in such a nice natural light (when it came to picking lenses this helped a lot). The front/reception desk doesn't take up a large footprint and is off to the side and the eyeglass fitting stations aren't smack in the middle either. A very refreshing open office. I also liked how the waiting area was around the corner from everything else so those who are waiting to see the Dr. and those looking at glasses aren't disturbed by the other. Simple, non-obtrusive photography lined the waiting area, including a picture of Dr. Kowalski and his family. Great touch!
Ok, now to the actual eye exam. I hate eye exams. As a child I wore glasses at an early age, before I even turned a year old. We have the hereditary Stickler Syndrome in our family so my parents were pretty on top of our eye care, with regular visit either every six months or a year. The whole "this one...or this one" memory is far to strong than it should be. So, I was anxious to get this over with. I was greeted with a friendly smile by Dr. Kowalski and we went back (across the hall really) to his office. He looked over my info sheet, we discussed family history and then explained all the fancy machinery. I couldn't recall a thing he described but they seem much more simpler and comfortable than I recall from even six years ago. My favorite part was when he showed me pictures of my eye on his screen. Never, in all my years of visiting eye doctors has any of them shown me my eye. Awesome. He did this while explaining about my eye pressure and other issues and pretty much connecting the dots for me in regards to my eye history. It's so amazing when doctors treat you with respect and share info so you can be aware of your own health. So very important!
After the eye exam I was a bit overwhelmed looking for frames, but eventually started from the left side and moved along the options. I knew my insurance covered a decent amount and that I could handle the remaining amount but I didn't want to jump into a pair of frames before I knew I really liked them. The style I was looking for is pretty common but I am extremely picky with color so it took a bit. I was trying to decide between some gorgeous teal frames or the deep purple ones and the assistant actually suggested the purple ones even though they were $60 less. So, purple it was.
I did upgrade some of my lenses options because I could afford it (had the scratch protection injected in lense instead of a simple coating and had them trimmed down) but it was worth it. The best part? I ordered my glasses on a Saturday and received a call on Wednesday that they were in. Even the woman who called was a bit surprised, but hey, I'll take it. it is amazing to SEE again. My prescription actually improved and items/people have edges to them. Like Sully's fur in Monster's Inc., I wanna reach out and touch my friends' hair, it's unreal.
My contacts don't bug me as much, but I'll be returning in the next couple months for an eye fitting and to purchase those as well. I highly suggest Date Springs Optometry and Dr. Kowalski. His staff is very friendly and knowledgeable and the Dr himself was a welcomed change.
I made an appointment but they did have a sign up saying they took walk-ins as well.
Murrieta, CA 92563
(951) 677-9992
White Lime
Category:
Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt
I like my deserts simple. Which is why I find it difficult to believe that someone managed to mess up with vanilla froyo and fruit toppings. Simple, right? Ugh. Their vanilla is very custardy, blechy, reminds me of tapioca pudding like. Not a good thing. And yet every time I go I get vanilla because that's what I like at any other store. Why do I return? It's always a matter of convenience for a friend, so I cave and meet them there, hoping it better. Nope. Still a melty not-quite vanilla mess.
I'm not a big topping fan when it comes to candy, though I will add a single animal cookie or sprinkle a few mini caramel cups or cheesecake bites on if I can (they had bites before, but not the last time a couple months ago). What I like the most is fruit. Fruit, fruit, fruit. Nothing more refreshing and non-guilt inducing than a small cup of vanilla froyo topped with strawberries, kiwi (my fave), raspberries and blackberries. No problem, except the pieces of strawberry and kiwi are gigantic! Sure, when I slice up a kiwi at home I eat large slices, but it's difficult to enjoy a bite of froyo with a chunk of frozen kiwi. Additionally, having the large pieces of course makes the topping weigh even more. I get it. But cut it up in smaller pieces and I'm more inclined to put more fruit seeing as how I'll be able to eat it.
A side note that I refuse to ignore because it's irked me since the first time I noticed it. There is a sign up on wall that says photography is not allowed. How the hell am I supposed to respond to that without being irritated? First thought was "really, why not? What is wrong, what don't you want people to see?" Not a good thing to have running through my head when about to purchase your product. Then I realized, oh, they have a giant flat-panel TV up on the wall showing pictures of customers in happy poses and goofy grins. Nifty. So they can take pictures of their customers but we as customers are not allowed to? WTH?! You want us to stop in and share some happy frozen yogurt moments but oh my goodness, we better keep those memories in our head because we can't take photos while we're there. How rude.
I must add the people who work here have been nothing but friendly, and the decor is splendid, just happy-go-lucky bright colors that remind me of a candy store. I'm ok with that. Just wish their product was at the same level. And that I could take pictures if I so choose to.
I discovered Rick last year when he was doing some training at my other gym, NC3, and enjoyed his technique during the one session I had. Taking advantage of his special, I signed up and have attending classes on average four times a week. (I would be there five or six but I tackle Zumba and Spin on other days).
There are morning and evening classes but evening works best for me. Each session starts with "warm up" on the TRX, covering serious core work, chest and leg workouts as well. I have attempted to do core work over the months but nothing quite like the TRX helps you realize how out of shape the core is. Holy moley. Some days I'm ready to go home after the TRX but I stick it out.
Next up, we pair up (Rick is really good at matching up newbies with those who can help them out and balancing the power between the two) and do combos on the hanging bags. After those we split up in groups and tackle the three stations: heavy ropes, knee bags and punching on the bags. The knee bags are very misleading, seemingly easy but usually end up knocking the wind outta me if I don't focus on correct breathing. Bags, well, love it, usually more focused combos. Then, there's the heavy ropes. Oh, my love hate relationship with these is strong. Hate the ropes for their difficulty but I love the benefits and near instantaneous results I get in my arms/shoulders. After the stations we're back at the bags and doing combos or focusing on individual punches.
I had some worn (dusty) gloves when I joined up but my membership special came with some great quality of wraps and gloves. Take advantage of this special as it makes a difference when you're punching that bag.
I'm in my thirties and I've seen kids, teens, adults in their fifties, men, woman, been working out for years or just starting now. Rick has amazing patience (I have issues adjusting the TRX, still working on it) and is extremely encouraging and supportive of all. Kickboxing has helped me drop a pant size in a few weeks but most importantly it's been a mental benefit as well. Had a rough day/week? Go sweat, hit it out. So very worth it!
Added: Just wanted to note that if you were to look at BEST Kickboxing in Murrieta, all three 2010 reviews of the gym reference Rick, when he was teaching there. Thus, he rocks, no matter where he is.
Always great to catch up with Carlos and he even let my friend and her daughter join us in the room (her and her husband have had multiple tats done there) . The piercing didn't even hurt and went quick. Not much else to say about that, really. good conversation with Carlos, though. :)
A couple months after the piercing I needed to take it out and when it came time to put it back in I could not get the ball back, not even with my roommates' help. I stopped in Essential Ink really quick and Anna helped me out. Yeeeah! Saved me, 'cause I looked a bit ridiculous with the ring sans ball.
No more piercings for me (I'm content with this perfect one) but one day..there'll be another tat or two. I have them planned out already.
1 Previous Review:
-
4/21/2008 First to Review
To sum it up, this place rocks! I can't remember the names of the others guys inside but Carlos and Pam, the owners, are so very nice and helpful. I met Carlos at the neighboring Powerhouse Gym during bagboxing (don't mess with me, just ask him, I've got a mean right hook) and for months he suggested I come in. He insisted his wife, Pam, would give me an awesome tattoo, just say it, she'll do it.
It's not that I didn't believe him, it's just that I didn't have the money, nor did I know exactly what I wanted. Eventually, I met a couple other friends at the gym (Spin class, who'd have thunk), and one night went out to Pechanga to nicely counteract our hours at the gym. While enjoying our buzz, we started discussing tattoos...I wanted one, my friend had three...and she proceeded to show them all to me (partially disrobing, weee, everybody look at us). They looked awesome, vibrant color and extreme detail...they kicked ass.
So that night got my head ticking and over the next few weeks I contemplated what I wanted. Then, one morning, I woke up and knew. I just KNEW what it had to be. So i stopped by Essential Ink and talked to Pam. We worked out a simple sketch from my idea, she gave me a quote and I made an appointment.
The day of, I wasn't too nervous since my friend was there getting one of her touched up. As I sat there in her room, trying not to make her laugh, Pam took a minute here and there to explain to me what was going on. When it came time for my turn I was just afraid I'd start laughing and never stop and had no problem whatsoever.
Pam let me have a break a couple times, for her sake and then mine, as I was propping myself up with my hands on the table. When the process was done she explained how to take care of it, gave a tube of gel to place on the tat, along with a card of the same information.
Essential Ink is a very friendly and casual atmosphere but the staff is professional and the private rooms are very clean, new needles each person, etc. Rockin' music, and even video games to play if you're interested. The only reason I haven't gone back is lack of funds because as they said, once you get one, you just can't stop. I already have my next two tattoos planned...it's only a matter of time, and when that is, I'll be returning to Essential Ink.
Oh yes, they also do piercings, permanent eye makeup and custom designs.
Murrieta, CA 92562
(951) 677-4748
Temecula Valley OB/Gyn Medical Associates Inc
Categories:
Obstetricians and Gynecologists,
Hair Removal
The only reason I'm not giving a five star rating is due to the scheduling issues. To set up the appointment for the procedure I had to work with the surgery coordinator. Unfortunately, she does not work out of the office and I spent many weeks, yes, weeks, playing phone tag with her. Finally, when we did reach each other she gave me info I needed and when I could schedule it was set up as soon as possible.
Day of the procedure started early in the morning. I showed up with my prescriptions which I was instructed to take their in the office. Valium and codeine. Woo hoo! As I told them when asked, I was "peachy" (yes, I was required to have a ride home).
Dr. Elfelt and the nurses were extremely relaxing, friendly and comforting during the whole process (and that's not just the drugs talking). All went smoothly though I did have some extreme pain after. No matter, after I recovered, they helped my friend take me to the car where I proceeded to go home, curl up in fetal position and sleep in drug induced numbness.
A side note: the office is beautiful, spacious and definitely not the usual sterile type of medical office. Also, some days they are open until 7PM, a huge plus for those who work during the day (my first visit was at 5:30PM).
Wow. I just wrote a review for an ob/gyn office. Definitely a first.
I still work out at NC3 multiple times a week, thoroughly enjoying the Spinning classes in the mornings and the Step class on Wednesdays. The floor, with all the weights and machines is still working perfectly for me and has yet to be overcrowded like most other gyms I've used in the past. The front desk people have even improved, though I'm not sure what's up with taking their chairs away. How cruel to the employees!
Unfortunately, the other morning and evening classes are constantly being rearranged, added, changed, dropped and there is no consistency. Some of my favorite classes have been dropped for no apparent reason, or after a few low-count days. To be honest...I prefer classes that aren't completely full as it easier to move around and enjoy myself, rather than feel stifled and crowded. The Spinning classes haven't been touched, yet, but if they mess with them, I will end up leaving.
I already know a few current members who are shopping around other gyms because the group X class selection is lacking and I completely understand. If I only used the gym for classes, I'd be in the same situation. Having the vast weight area and options available to me is what keeps me here (well, and my Spinning classes...the instructors are awesome).
Additionally, the pushy, salespeople and trainers are in full force and becoming annoying. Today, one approached me in the locker room and offered up her training to me. Sure, might not annoy others, but considering I'm there nearly every day, have seen and am quite aware of her, you'd think she'd realize I know what I'm doing and don't want to be bothered. The reason I left 24 hour Fitness in the past? Because of the pushy in-your-face atmosphere, and if that continues here, it'll be another reason to check other gyms out.
I really want to say completely positive things about this gym as I've been with it since it opened and for the most part enjoy the atmosphere and facilities. But they need to stop making so many changes, and let feedback from members actually mean something. If the new management would get their act together then NC3 could go back to the five stars it used to be.
Listed in: Creature of Habit
3 Previous Reviews:
-
8/16/2009
Powerhouse of Murrieta has now changed their name to NC3 or NCTHREE as the new uniforms on all the staff show.
Still a friendly staff and instructors...they get rid of the good ones I don't know what I'll do.
EDIT: I take that back about the staff. Well, some of the staff are nice but a lot of the girls at the front desk have been quite rude and snobbish as of late. Perhaps there feeling of sudden importance now that they're wearing uniforms. -
5/23/2009
I still love this gym and drive fifteen minutes to workout here. While there have been some changes in the last year to change my original rating from five to four stars, as of yet it's not enough to scare me away.
The staff continues to be friendly and helpful as ever. I really appreciate that and it's made the largest impact on whether I return even though I manage to move further away every year.
Unfortunately, the change in ownership within the last few months has affected the atmosphere some. Somewhat annoying, there seems to be more advertising for other businesses and products within the gym. While I realize they probably do this in order to provide additional income besides memberships, it's distracting.
Additionally, the religious reading material throughout the locker room has increased and grown quite tiresome. Sure, other random magazines are available but it's in your face and feels preachy. Yes, it's a private business and they can do what they please, but if they start displaying scriptures or other religious items on their walls like some other gyms I've sampled in the area I'll have to change where I work out.
On the plus side of changes, the original smoothies they had were based off of powder and though they're slightly costlier, they are now completely made with fresh fruit. I don't get them often, but when i do it's been a nice treat.
To the actual facilities: I attend classes more so now than before and have specific recommendations. For Spinning (indoor cycling) I highly suggest Helen (Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday morning) and Kelly (Monday and Wednesday mornings, and sometimes subs at night). I also encourage taking an TurboKick class with Rebecca (Monday night, Friday morning), or trying her Bagboxing on Wednesday nights. The Bagboxing is not what I originally started with a couple years ago. Previously it was an hour of boxing, changed to thirty minutes of boxing; currently it's morphed into an hour of circuit training mixed with some bagboxing throughout. I don't mind the changes as much but I really do miss the full hour of bagboxing. To make up for it I try to make it in to the gym when I can go at the bags on my own.
There are numerous other classes such as BodyBar, Yoga, etc, but they just don't work for me and my knees. One, Zoomba seems to be the newest hit but I tried it and left, unimpressed with the instructor's lack of rhythm (something you would expect with the type of music playing).
Overall, I still enjoy Powerhouse, and hope any more changes are for the better. -
5/15/2007 First to Review
I joined as a Charter member November 2005 and the gym opened up January 2006. I love Powerhouse and will miss it if I actually move away from this location. The staff is extremely friendly, encouraging, and even notice when I've been away for a couple weeks. So far, the only negatives about this gym is the lack of a pool and shorter hours compared to other chains but it's definitely worth it!
When it comes to cardio machines there are plenty, from stair climbers, both types of bikes, to ellipticals and treadmills. All have their own tv screen attached and provide a place to plug in headphones and change channels/volume. There is a large section of machines though I only use the back ones as I use the free weights mostly. And speaking of free weights, there are at least five benches, a long wall full of dumbells, and plenty of options available even during busy times.
They have tons of classes available: Spinning, Body Bar, Turbo Kick, Bag Boxing, Cardio Sculpt, Pilates, Yoga and others added all the time. I never participated in classes at prior gyms but the instructors are so exciting I couldn't help it, so now I am obsessed with Spinning and BagBoxing. There are morning and evening options for Spinning which is important for me since my schedule changes all the time and I love the varying options.
The women's locker room is spacious and also has a sauna and five shower stalls (one handicap equipped). They even provide spray deodorant, hair spray, mouth wash, and tampons and pads (ooh, options, nice).
My five-year-old loves the childcare area and looks forward to going to the gym as much as I do. You can either pay for it each use or have it added to your dues monthly, which is what I do and definitely a cost saver.
Gym hours:
Mon-Thurs 5am - 11pm
Fri 5am - 10pm
Sat & Sun 6am - 8pm
Childcare hours:
Mon-Thurs 8am - 12pm, 4-8pm
Fri 8am - 12pm, 4-7pm
Sat 8-12pm
Sun Closed
Their facebook page says "Cafe' Bravo Murrieta Store is moving to a new location. This will be announced in the coming days. Please check in on facebook for updates and details. Thanks to all of our loyal customers for your encouragement and support - we love all of you!!"
I really don't care why they closed, whether they had to or not. What business, being run properly, relocates and closes their shop down without notifying customers beforehand?
I will change my rating to a better one if they re-open in a new location and continue to provide the service and coffee I am used to. Until then, I'm annoyed and frustrated because there was no notice to customers. Thanks for NOT supporting your loyal customers!
Listed in: Creature of Habit
3 Previous Reviews:
-
1/23/2010
Had to add that the bag of coffee I picked up from Cafe Bravo yesterday and brewed this morning is the next best thing to enjoying their coffee in the shop. Yum! definitely a step up from what we were used to having at home.
-
12/21/2009
Just had to add that I went back with my friend and ordered the mocha this time. Best damn mocha I've ever had! And that says a lot since I usually get a peppermint one at Starbucks just to cover the taste of their mochas. Yummy mocha, brought to us on the swank white couch, rocked my day.
-
12/11/2009
Yeeeah!!! Finally, a local coffee shop worth writing about. Thankyouthankyouthan kyou!
Cafe Bravo has a total 60s vibe to it but done which class. Bold brown and orange cover this shop but it is the additional white details and furniture that made my design self squeal inside with joy.
The private "bonus" room off to the left of the main entrance had me planning a future session with my people. Is it a bit too much to say I adored that room? *Sigh* Orange drapes frame the triangular space, filled with a yummy white couch and small table and chairs. Lower than most couches, it was just right for relaxing, close enough to the table yet far enough to stretch out the legs. it did get a little chilly in there, so bring a sweater or jacket if you plan on using the side room.
Oh, right, the coffee. I can't speak for the fancy drinks, as I only ordered drip, but my friend said her latte was yummy and tasted very fresh. My 12oz coffee in a mug (on a plate!) was brought out to me (along with the half and half) and was very tasty indeed. The coffee's flavor was bold yet not bitter like I'm accustomed to. I drank it down quite quickly because it was smooth and tasted so, so good.
Even when the cafe business picked up the atmosphere didn't seem crazy or rushed. There was plenty of space inside in additional to the small room, and a number of outside seating available as well.
The staff was a friendly bunch, and like I mentioned earlier, offered to bring our drinks to us once we stated we were staying.
The location is a bit out of my way during my usual routine (I live in Menifee), but I'll be stopping there regularly when make my trips to Eclectic Books down the road. Perhaps I'll even bring along my laptop to enjoy the free wi-fi. Because, oh yes, Cafe Bravo rocked my socks off and I'm going back for more.
Listed in: Creature of Habit
1 Previous Review:
-
11/23/2009
By far my favorite self-serve frozen yogurt place in the Inland Valley area. I've tried White Lime & Xtreme (still yummy), really disliked Whimsical, and apparently, this is just what I've been looking for!
My friends and I met up here last Saturday and stayed for quite awhile. Not only was the yogurt perfect, but the atmosphere was fun and welcoming. White Lime always bugged me because the inside seating area was tiny. Not an issue at FroYoLand! Four bright orange chairs, along with a couple small table & chair sets, a kids table, plus plenty of walking room. This is huge and very important to me. I don't like feeling cramped and that other customers are going to bump into me while I'm enjoying my yummy goodness. Again, not an issue here, and my friends and I were comfy on our two couches hanging out for over an hour.
There were a variety of flavors, but I'm a simple person, so stuck with my vanilla. (I tried peppermint...was lovely, but wouldn't have meshed well with my favorite fruit toppings). I don't use all the candy toppings, (ok, I love the cheesecake bites), but there were oodles. I go straight to the fruit and not only did they have strawberry and kiwi, my favorites, but they had mango. Ultra Yum!
Friendly service, bright, colorful and spacious atmosphere and the yogurt was creamy. Perfect. Definitely going to be the new "meetup" place for me and my friends.
2 Lists
"I splash and giggle in the shallow end."
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95 Useful, 29 Funny, and 31 Cool
Temecula, CA
Yelping SinceApril 2007
Things I LovePeople watching, dancing, board games
Find Me InMurrieta, Temecula, San Diego
My HometownSeattle, WA
My Blog Or Website When I'm Not Yelping...I go crazy in this valley of nothing to do!
Why You Should Read My ReviewsBecause I'm lazy so when I take the time to share I mean business!
The Last Great Book I ReadCollapse by Jared Diamond
My First ConcertUB40 @ Bumbershoot '92
My Favorite MovieDark City, Henry and June, Secretary, Office Space
My Last Meal On EarthDon't care about anything but homemade creamy mashed potatoes and gravy.
Don't Tell Anyone Else But...Red Vines make me happy.
Most Recent DiscoveryCashew Chicken
Current CrushAirheads
I have also resigned to only getting mochas or tea here as they just can't seem to my iced coffee right (all other locations have no issues whatsoever).
The two stars are for the friendly people working there, but man, that smile and "what can I getcha?" only goes so far. I have actually faded out my visits to this store and find the Temecula Parkway one to be much more efficient with my time.