It was a particularly hot summer in California and although it was a relief to be there versus suffering through the North Carolina swampy, sweaty heat, it was rather warm. The heat resulted in some of the most spectacular sunsets I have ever seen in California at the beach and up in Tahoe. Stunning.

I am often up just at sunrise in California and was also amazed by the sunrises on the waterfronts. The sun was surrounded by almost purple clouds as it peeked out over the horizon, rising up to warm the earth and begins the long summer days. Watching the beach and lake life come alive each morning enabled me to truly enjoy the incredible world we live in.

The vibrant full bougainvillea grows abundantly at beach and I love the rich colors of fuchsia, pinks and purples. Deep tangerine poppies grow in some of the gardens along with spectacular roses and wildflowers. Rich green succulents and palms trees scattered along the boardwalk flank the sandy beach, and I try to capture these colorful infused inspirations (for calendar ideas) with my camera on my long walks with our ill-behaved dog, Ivey. I hope that some of these inspirations will brighten your 2017.

Enjoy!

Cheers!