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Knowing that over half of Americans own smart phones, we've compiled a list of some of the best apps that every Californian should have! Whether it's traffic reports on congested roadways or a vacation idea, we've got you covered.

Best Smart Phone Apps Every Californian Should Have

California Road Report See CalTrans road conditions, chain control, find rest stops, and even see CHP incidents with this handy app! From Pinterest via Lumoid California Essential Guide ($4.99) At about the price of a venti drink at Starbucks, this hand app will help you plan your next California vacation! Disneyland App | Mouse Wait There are many Disneyland apps but this is a favorite. If you live in Southern California you must have this app. California State Parks Map ($0.99) It may cost you almost a dollar, but this app for California State Parks is worth it! Plan a trip to the California Redwoods and use this app to download maps of the area to always know where you are. From Wikipedia - Tide Pools

California Tidepools We call this one of the best apps because, if you're on the California coast, this app is a must! The beautiful photos and informational captions will help you explore the California coast.

DiscoverIt! California This free app claims to help you, "Find Anything - no cell service, no internet, no maps, no pins, no typing!" With points of interest, information for hikers and bikers, and so much more, this app has to be included in a best apps list! Flickr- Scott Smith California Traffic Report Avoid getting stuck in traffic with this app that covers Los Angeles, the Bay Area, and San Diego. California Atlas ($4.99) No matter where you are in California, this atlas app will show you the way to go! California Traffic Cameras/Transit/Travel/NOAA See what's going on in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Diego through his handy free app. California Hot Springs ($9.99) It may be a little more expensive (like one month of Spotify) but if you love mineral springs and spas, this is the app for you. California Ins & B&B’s ($2.99) Find inns, B&B's and cute boutique hotels with this amazing app. California's Gold Country Travel Guide As part of the best apps for California, we couldn't leave out the history buffs. Use this app for traveling and discovering more about California's rich history. California Farmers' Market Finder Look all over California to find a Farmers' Market near you! Yelp Though not specific to California, this has to be part of a best apps list because it's just so helpful! From Pinterest via renewable-energy-news.info

Chimani Yosemite National Park Travel to Yosemite National Park with this amazingly helpful app.

California Wine Club Food and Wine Wheel Pair any wine with any food using this handy app made for the California Wine Club. California Breweries For the discerning beer connoisseur this app has it all - a list of brewery locations and information. From Pinterest via Tumbler California Surfing ($4.99) Dude you like, need to have this totally awesome surfing app. It's for sure the gnarliest app ever! Skate California ($0.99) Perfect guide to the skate parks of California. QuakeFeed for Earthquakes It's no secret that earthquakes are bound to happen in California. Use this completely free app to get alerts, see maps, and find out the size of any earthquake! Fire Station App ($1.99) Often, during the summer especially, California is prone to wilderness and residential fires. This app lets you in on where all local fire stations are. San Francisco Exploration Guide Visit San Francisco and use this app to get around. Hearst Castle Planning that trip to see the Hearst Castle? Navigate through it with this app! From PInterest by hendartopermadi

Pocket Penguins See these cuties live from the California Academy of Sciences! Perfect for a break at lunch.

California Homes for Sale Do you love California so much you've decided to move? Or maybe it's time to relocate? Use this app to find the perfect location! VSCO Cam One of the best apps for photo editing. Every Californian should have this free app!  

We've compiled a list of the best California races to put your endurance and strength to the test. Some are just plain fun and others will push you to (and maybe past) the breaking point. Which races are you up for?

Tough Mudder

Likely one of the better known mud runs, the Tough Mudder has everything you'll need to get dirty while challenging your endurance and team spirit. There are several California race locations including Patterson (Northern California) April 12-13, Tahoe August 16-17, and Temecula October 25-26. Be warned - the Tough Mudder isn't for the faint of heart! Pinterest - from mensfitness.com

Down and Dirty Obstacle Race

The Southern California location for this race is Castaic, Ca (Northern Los Angeles) and is held on April 13, 2014.  This races offers you the choice of a 3 mile or 6 mile course with over 20 obstacles including rope climbing, a rock wall, balance beans, marine hurdles, mud pits, and so much more! Participate in this race and you are guaranteed to walk away dirty.

Kiss Me Dirty Mud Run

This one's for the ladies (or, apparently, guys dressed up like ladies?). The Kiss Me Dirty Mud Run on April 26, 2014 in San Jose combines mud, foam, and color. It's like participating in three races at once! Lucky ladies that sign up for this gem of a race will have one thing in common: attitude. If this is you, make this your next California race!

The Color Run

Break out that nice white T-shirt and take a before and after selfie, because this run will not only give you a great workout, but a whole new colorful look. The Color Run, with a variety of locations in California, is a fun and easy 5k. The Orange County run is coming up May 10, 2014 so make sure and register soon! Grab three other friends and knock $5 off your entry fee! Pinterest - from Nancy Tu

Mud n' Blood Zombie Run

Not for the faint of heart, this Mud and Zombie Run combines the elements of fear and grime to get your heart beating and your legs pumping. If you've been training for the impending Zombie Apocalypse and want to prove something (whether that's to you or to the people dressed up like zombies who will be chasing you) sign up now! The next race is June 7, 2014 but mark your calendars for The Zombie Run (a similar race) next year in March. Photo from The Zombie Run via livestrong.com

Gladiator Rockin' Run

Take a trip to Irvine on June 14, 2014 for this 5k with 17 obstacles, a whole lot of mud, and even a free beer at the end (for those over 21 of course!). This is a great event to form a team and create a costume for!

The Slime Run

SLIME! There is nothing better than running through green goo. Ok, maybe there are some things that are better, but this is definitely near the top of the list. The next event is in Sacramento on June 21, 2014 or wait until October 25, 2014 for the Southern California race held in Lake Elsinore.

5k Foam Fest

This race is packed with foamy fun for everyone! You'll be muddy and clean all at the same time with the various obstacles in place during this 5k. With two locations in California, you have no excuse to get out of this! July 19, 2014 in Temecula and August 9, 2014 in Oakland. Register now to save your spot! Found on 5K Foam Fest

The Great American Hero Obstacle Run (5k/10k)

The race supports heroes locally and abroad and is meant to challenge any fitness level! It's located near the San Joaquin River on August 23, 2014 and is a great event for the whole family with a focus on celebrating those who serve in the military and as civil servants.

Spartan Race

Crawl through mud, under wires, and jump over fire (among other obstacles) in the this hard-core race held in various locations world wide. The California race is held in Temecula on September 14, 2014. Dominate this run and you may just win an entry into the Super Spartan! Flickr - cogdogblog

MuckFest 5k Mud Run

If these earlier races weren't enough for you (or it's taken you until the fall to gain the courage to join) sign up for the MuckFest 5k held in Los Angeles September 27, 2014. This race is a fundraiser for the MS foundation and  100% of funds raised will go to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society! You shouldn't need any better motivation than that ;)

Have we convinced you to sign up for a race that will leave you muddy and exhausted? If so, let us know which one in the comments below!

Source: Mud Jumper Cover Photo: From Rich-Joseph Facun Photography

Whether you're planning a wedding right now or just Pinterest-planning your future wedding, you need to check out this list of 20 amazing California wedding venues.This list covers all areas of California and you are guaranteed to find a venue that suits you from outdoors rugged to plush, indoor elegance.

No matter what your wedding dreams are, they can come true in California.

20 AMAZING California Wedding Venues

1. Calistoga Ranch in Napa Valley: It's right there in the title: Cali-stoga Ranch. This beautiful California wedding venue has it all! Spa, formal dining, lodging, and a view that will knock your socks off!

From Pinterest - by tiaandclairestudio.com 2. Owl Creek Weddings in Temecula: This venue is relatively new on the wedding market for Southern California but it is beautiful with a rustic feel and fantastic red barn as the perfect backdrop for any bride looking for a vintage-chic feeling. Owl Creek Weddings - Chelsea Steller Photography

3. Stryker Winery in Sonoma: This wintery combines stunning architecture and an amazing view that can't be beat. BuzzFeed named it one of the "22 Coolest PLaces to Get Married in America". We agree!

From Pinterest - from kristiamoroso.com 4. Jefferson Street Mansion in Benicia: Looking for an elegant and historic venue? Look no further than the the stunning Jefferson Street Mansion. From Bay Area Wedding Venues

5. Cambria Pines Lodge in Cambria: Rustic luxury defines this stunning lodge with many options to accommodate a small wedding (40-60 guests) to a larger wedding (300 guests).

From Pinterest - by proimageweddings.com 6. Cayucos Creek Barn in Cayucos: Chalk this one up for its rustic beauty and charming location! The century-year-old barn is the perfect backdrop for a wedding. From Cameron Ingalls Photography 7. The Glass Barn in Ivanhoe: Seven Sycamores Ranch offers a fantastic location channeling the ever-popular theme of vintage meets country. From Seven Sycamores Ranch 8. Yosemite Valley Chapel in Yosemite National Park: Are you a fan of the outdoors and love nature? What better way to celebrate your wedding than in Yosemite National Park? Whether it's in winter or summer, this California wedding venue is stunning! From Photobucket 9. The Heirloom Inn in Ione: This lovely Central California inn is perfect for outdoor garden weddings with the touch of elegance and a hint of history added by the beautiful brick of the inn. From The Heirloom Inn 10. Mill Rose Inn in Half Moon Bay: Not far from the Half Moon Bay Hostel, this charming inn boasts a "classic European elegance by the sea". What could be better for your wedding? From The Mill Rose Inn 11. The Garden at Olympic Village Lodge in Squaw Valley: The jaw dropping views of this venue will stun your guests while the top-notch staff at Squaw Valley will make your every dream come true! Check out their website for other wedding locations. From Squaw Valley Weddings

12. June Mountain Weddings in June Lake: This full-service venue offers a spectacular view, not to mention the option of riding up on the lift to say "I do". Why not make your grand entrance in style?

From Shutterfly - June Mountain Weddings 13. Union Hill Inn in Sonora: With the phrase "rustic and refined" this inn is a perfect location for a discerning bride with an eye toward historic charm and delicate elegance. From Union Hill Inn - Photographer Bogdan Condor

14. McCloud Hotel in McCloud: If you're in Northern California, the McCloud Mercantile is an enchanting location offering an historic backdrop and rustic charm.

From Shooting Sacramento - by Nhat

15. Bear Flag Farm in Winters: This stunning venue (featured in several popular wedding magazines) is extremely selective with their event booking, but if you can manage to get on the list and afford the price it will be worth it!

From Style Me Pretty by Jennifer Skog Photographers 16. Holman Ranch in Carmel Valley: This venue boasts a secluded feel that is at once sophisticated and rustic. From Pinterest by Carlie Statsky

17. Viansa Winery and Marketplace in Sonoma: Another beautiful venue to tempt those who love wonderful wine and stunning views. Viansa has indoor and outdoor options that are sure to fit your needs.

From Viansa Gallery

18. Casa Romantica in San Clemente: This bluff top estate is a non-profit and any money they collect for your event goes toward maintaining the beautiful grounds. A great way to give back for your wedding.

From Kevin Levu Weddings

19. Mountain Home Inn in Mill Valley: With options for "Green Weddings" this is venue boats a breath taking view from high up on Mt. Tamalpais.

From Pinterest - by susanadler.com 20. Point Reyes Seashore Lodge: Enjoy all this private country estate has to offer including guest rooms, vast green lawns, catering and rentals all in one place. From Style Me Pretty - by Ellie M. Photography Cover photo by E.A. Creative Photography

Everyone knows Disneyland is a magical place with thrill-filled rides, fantastic fireworks, awesome souvenirs, and the famous characters. What you don’t usually go to Disneyland for is the food, but that’s all about to change when you see this list of foods and drinks that make standing in those long lines worth it. Disneyland Resort has the food and drink side of things covered. They have figured out what their guests want and cater to it—from green screwdrivers with five different rums to buttery pineapple ice cream, the following items are must-tries.   The Uh-Oa! Where to Find It: Trader Sam’s Bar in The Disneyland Hotel What It Is: Following the Enchanted Tiki Room theme, Trader Sam’s Bar serves this delightful drink in a stylish fishbowl. It contained a bit of everything tasty: both light and dark rums, multiple tropical juices, and a pinch of cinnamon. It’s quite sizable, and you’ll be calling its name when it’s brought out to you!   Peanut Butter & Jelly Soda Where to Find It: Carnation Café on Main Street in Disneyland What It Is: They got this drink down to a science. With neither the peanut butter taste nor the grape jelly taste too overwhelming, this subtle drink will put you back your to elementary school days.   The Zombie Where to Find It: Cove Bar at Paradise Pier in California Adventure What It Is: Changing slightly depending on which bartender is on shift, The Zombie rightfully earns its name by having three to five different kinds of rum and only a splash of fruit juice. It seems as if it were made to turn you into a zombie or wake you up from zombie mode; either way, it works!   Wine and Cheese Box Where to Find It: Mendocino Terrace at Pacific Wharf in California Adventure What It Is: Considered to be one of the more “classier” snack available, the Wine and Cheese Box allows you to pair which ever wines and cheeses on the list. It even comes with a bonus: breadsticks. Enjoy on the Mendocino Terrace.   Pineapple Whip, Salted Caramel, and Strawberry Cream Flavored Churros Where to Find It: At the California Churro Cart in Downtown Disney What It Is: Regular cinnamon churros? Pshh, those deep-fried sugar sticks got absolutely nothing on these.   Matterhorn Macaroon Where to Find It: Jolly Holiday Bakery on Main Street Disneyland What It Is: This treat beautifully resembles the Matterhorn. It’s a crunchy coconut crag-like display with whipped cream on top as the snow. Simply made and uber-sweet, don’t forget to take a picture of it with the real mountain in the background!   Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Sandwich Where to Find It: Pooh’s Corner in Critter Country in Disneyland What It Is: Made in perfection, the Chocolate Cover Peanut Butter Sandwich is the ultimate Reese’s, plus cookie. It’s the perfect size with the perfect combinations of taste.   Dole Whip Where to Find It: In the Enchanted Tiki Room in Adventure Land in Disneyland What It Is: This amazing soft serve will be sure to make your happy taste buds fall crazy in love. You can also get it as a pineapple juice float. The blend of the smooth and buttery, yet tart flavors are best enjoyed very slowly so that each bite can be savored.   Beignets Where to Find It: Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square at Disneyland What It Is: This treat takes churros to the next level by being puffed and layered with powdered sugar. This Mickey-shaped pillow-like automatically put you in the Disneyland experience… or enhance it! The Jazz Kitchen versions are a bit bigger, but they are square. No fun!   Carnitas Nachos Where to Find It: White Water Snacks at The Grand Californian What It Is: Hidden within the Grand Californian is a small place called White Water Snacks. They do have snacks, but by ordering one of their Angus cheeseburgers or the shredded beef nachos. Switch it for carnitas and you’ll probably go into a food coma for a few hours.   Lobster Roll Where to Find It: Harbour Gallery in Critter Country in Disneyland What It Is: This dish is truly a hidden gem. This surprisingly good lobster sandwich is on a nice toasted roll. It’s not the best lobster roll that you’ll ever had or probably have ever had, but as far as amazing theme park food, this fits the bill.   Broasted Chicken Where to Find It: Plaza Inn on Main Street in Disneyland What It Is: This chicken is the real deal. There aren’t and turkey trumpets here. This’ll remind you of a home-style cooked meal. Both deep fried and salted to perfection, the chicken is served with seasoned green beans, mashed potatoes, and dinner rolls.   Barbeque Chicken Stuffed Baked Potato Where to Find It: Harbour Gallery in Critter Country in Disneyland What It Is: Another chicken dish here, but instead of fried, it’s covered in a sweet orange glaze. Keep it from being overly sweet, try to put a bit of the chives, cole slaw, sour cream, and butter into every bite. It’s quite a challenge!   Lobster Nachos Where to Find It: Cove Bar at Paradise Pier in California Adventure What It Is: Although a pretty standard dish, the Lobster Nachos are worth mentioning because they are simply delicious. It contains lobster pieces, cheese, thick tortilla chips, and black beans. Definitely enough for four people, so bring some friends.   The Monte Cristo Where to Find It: Café Orleans in New Orleans Square in Disneyland What It Is: For the same price of the parking pass you can order the Monte Cristo. Though it’s on the expensive side, this surprisingly not-so-greasy, sugar-powdered, deep fried, ham and cheese sandwich is worth it. It’ll fill you up for the entire day, especially with the side of fruit. http://www.foodbeast.com/2014/04/02/the-top-15-...        

The LA Marathon occurs every year in March and is a 26.2-mile course reaching from the Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica. It’ll cost you $150 (maybe more for whatever gear you want to bring along), but it’s a lot of fun. There are several “run for charity” options if you need an extra motivational boost, or just want to help out. The course itself is relatively flat, and when there are some hills, they are most downhill.   Before the Race   First things first, you’ll need to stop by the Expo on the Saturday of the marathon weekend to get your packet and marathon only deals. This year, they gave a shirt, a bottle of water, and some samples of various products. There are vendors and sports injury specialists camped out at the Expo. There is quite a lot to see if you have the time to mingle for a bit. Parking at the Expo will cost $15.   The Race   Get a good night’s sleep the night before, especially since you’ll be waking up at the crack of dawn. The lines are horrendous, both for the designated shuttle pick-ups, and for the bathrooms once you’re by Dodgers Stadium. The crowd adds an air of excitement, and nervousness as well. For many, this is a big moments in their lives. Calm the nerves by warming up, stretching, and watching the beautiful sunrise while the mayor gives a short speech. Unless you somehow get near the front of the starting point, once the official go is given, you’ll probably be stuck at a slow walk for ten minutes before you get to the start line. When you do get there though, it feels great. Stepping over the line, there are tons of people cheering you on, loud music, and thousands of other runners taking on the challenge with you. Leaving the area of Dodger Stadium is when the race truly begins, and you’ll have a chance to start going around and weaving through the other competitors. After a few miles, you’ll hit Chinatown. At this point, there will still be a lot of other runners around, but the first hill in downtown is when everyone really starts to spread out. Throughout the duration of the run, there are various bands that line the course and lots of cheering spectators to push you along.   Continue on to pass the famous Walt Disney Concert Hall. Up next are the chili cheese dog people with their signs along the sidewalk as you run up to their station. The dogs are free, but don’t really seem like the best idea in the middle of the race. Even so, lots of people partake. If you don’t think you can stomach a chili cheese dog, don’t fear. There are lots of friendly volunteers handing out oranges, pretzels, bananas, and water. It’s really great to have so much support. The course goes around Echo Lake, and through the hipster neighborhood of Silverlake. Somewhere around this point, the Hollywood sign is visible, and it’s really motivating to see. After all, it’s one of the most iconic symbols of California. You’ll continue the run down Hollywood Blvd and down Sunset as well where there will probably be some people dressed up and cheering you on. West Hollywood is next, followed by Rodeo Drive where all the famous stores and streets are. After that, you’ll make it to Santa Monica Blvd, the home stretch! The interesting sites to see are more spread apart as this section is mostly composed of long stretches of roads. At some point, there is a fire truck with a water sprayer to cool down the runners. Also, there are some people handing out beer, which is up to you if you want to drink while you’re running. The last couple miles run through a nice neighborhood with lots of people handing out all types of goodies and providing motivation for the last push to the finish. The last mile will enable to see the beach and the beckoning palm trees. As you near the finish, the music gets louder and louder. Hurray! Officially complete the marathon with a medal and some pictures. Running the LA Marathon truly an awesome experience and a great challenge. (all pictures are taken from this year's race) http://californiathroughmylens.com/la-marathon-...