Spring is long gone now and can't help but feel a little pang in my heart when I look back on these photos with a sense of nostalgia. We were on our way to lunch and passed by this beautiful area. It was secluded and not a soul was in sight. It was so picturesque like a still from a painting come alive. It was like we were in a separate space. A different plane of existence far removed from modern society with its complex housing and paved roads right next to it. And as we slowly walked along the shaded dirt path, the soft, alluring aroma of jasmine blossoms wafted under our noses. We were filled with wonderment. We couldn't keep the smiles off our faces. How could we resist photographing in this lovely setting with its magical, glittering backdrop and dappled sunlight filtering through.

You may be seeing this dress for the first time here on this blog, but I've owned it for many years now. You will come to understand that this is the case with a lot of the outfits I post on this blog. It was during H&M's spring end-of-season sale and I snatched it up for only $10! I was a huge bargain shopper back in the day when my college life ruled my wallet. I am still am now, but to a lesser extent. I've built my wardrobe from the ground up and it's full of the clothes I love. I cycle through my old clothes and wear the same exact outfits again and again - only I don't photograph them all the time. As to acquiring new clothes, I don't go out and buy much nowadays.

Oh, how lovely it was! I felt like waltzing through the flowers and singing "The Hills are Alive" with arms wide open. Too bad it was incredibly crowded! I'd do it if I was alone - probably. The weather had blessed us with a clear sunny sky, albeit 90 degree temperature. I could say, "It's such a beautiful day," over and over and it still wouldn't be enough. The drafts of gusty wind cooled us down wonderfully. Many times I've had my hat fly off my head and I'd have to chase after it.

 All too often, I have found myself staring longingly at Swedish Hasbeens, but unable to make the commitment to pay that much for a pair. So, when these Target versions came out many years ago, I knew I had to have them. Unfortunately, they've hardly seen the light of day. I'm such a klutz when it comes to wearing heels that I can't bother with the effort of wearing them. When I was younger, my mother would often tease me saying, "Walking confidently in heels is the mark of a woman." Well, at this rate, I'm never going to be a full-fledged woman!

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What I wore:

Dress: sample sale

Heels: Target (old)

Photos: John & me

Undeniably, the rain from El Nino gave life to all the sleeping plants and trees. How lush and bright Spring appears. All the flowers seem to be vying for the gold medal. Which one is displaying the most splendid colors, the most fantastic aroma? I cannot decide. The competition is fierce. I wish for more rainy days to wipe anew the smog-ridden city of Los Angeles and bright to light a clarity rarely seen in the hills and mountains that surround us. And of course, because we are still experiencing a drought!

No matter where I go or look, I am greeted by the vibrant fuchsia of bougainvillea blooming all over the city. Undeniably, spring is in full bloom. And like bees, I was mesmerized by this wall by the train tracks, which I initially had scouted for this photo set. I quickly abandoned the tracks as soon as my eyes laid on this wall bursting with blooms and color. Besides, I was too much of a scaredy cat to stand on the tracks anyway. Perhaps, I'll revisit this place with the cliche train track pictures in mind.

I bought this vintage child's coat on Etsy last winter. I thought it was the sweetest find. I love the tweed pattern and the warm tan, brown, and cream interlacing in perfect harmony. The buttons have a horse head on it and the inside is this bright orange quilted material. It keeps me warm - enough for California chill! I love it to bits!

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What I wore:

Coat: vintage (Etsy)

Top: mall boutique

Skirt: H&M

Oxfords: Miz Mooz

Photos: John & me