Collecting Memories
The summer season is always thought of as the time to travel...
The summer season is always thought of as the time to travel. Full of happy of times and thoughts of fun and sun ... memories that stay with us for life and help to shape who we are. Travel is something I feel is important for that very reason ... helping us see another perspective and grow as a person.
One thing we try to do while traveling is bring those perspectives home with the keepsakes we gather ... focusing on only a select few things that recreate the rich culture and style of other cities. Collecting visual memories and remembering the feelings that traveling creates ... the excitement of getting inspired by your surroundings and the sense of being at ease while on Holiday. The keepsakes help me to create a little visual diary at home, hopefully keeping you smiling and remembering of those special times ... ;)
Gravel & Gold - Boob Pillowcase . Diamond Quilt . Flokati Shag Rug
Seeing the seasons
Seeing the seasons change around you is something that I haven't experienced for a long time...
Seeing the seasons change around you is something that I haven't experienced for a long time. It reminds me of when I first arrived in America ... back East in Rhode Island. Seeing the seasons change for the first time ... from summer to fall then winter. The beautiful colors that appear and then disappear as all the leaves loose hold ... the excitement of the approaching summer once spring temperatures are on the rise.
Transitioning North from the city it has been nice to discover the different green around us. Being here long enough to see the different shapes and tones that develop with the seasons. It inspires me to learn more each day ... looking closer into the details ... diving deeper into things and exploring like when you were younger.
I find myself using elements of nature and styling within photos ... it seems to create such a nice balance to the photograph. I think that nature is something we are instinctually drawn too. We visit nature to relax ... to see something beautiful ... to revive ourselves. You can gain so much inspiration from nature and it's natural design.
Here's a few photos captured lately ... ;)
This spring, Boxed water is planning to plant 100,000 trees. Every photo you post on social media, using the hashtag #Retree, Boxed Water will plants 2 trees in our national forests ... :)
Gravel & Gold - The Boob Pillowcase
Excited to be a part of Arte magazine. A new quarterly magazine dedicated to providing a minimalist take on creative culture. A wonderful team to collaborate with .... Lets help them launch Issue 01 at kickstarter
Local Charm
Mexico has always offered me great experiences when wanting to get away...
Mexico has always offered me great experiences when wanting to get away. Each time we visit ... it becomes a more comforting and relaxed place ... full of smiling faces and wonderful people to meet ... warm sunny skies and beautiful beaches.
Sayulita is a town we found that offers this very effortlessly. It was so nice spending time with friends in this unique place ... exploring the rustic little streets and local artist storefronts ... sharing laughs and conversation while watching the rain from our balconies. Here are a few photos from our little adventure. Hope you enjoy the inspiration ... ;)
Ring: Delfina Delettrez , Kristen Elspeth, Lele Sadoughi Bracelet: Failjewelry
San Pancho Beach
Sandals: Tony Bianco
Bag: Issey Miyake Shoes: Asos Dress: Asos
Boat Party - Whale watching & Snorkling
Thank you Kenny & Elisa for this wonderful adventure ... we were so happy to be a part of something so special ... ;)
Puerto Rico
It was so nice to get to make it to Puerto Rico for the first time ...
It was so nice to get to make it to Puerto Rico for the first time ... getting a chance to meet new friends and visit with good company. The island has a very uplifting and calm feeling to it. People are so full of smiles ... being so helpful in every way as none of us spoke much Spanish. I really enjoyed our little walks around exploring the warm beaches ... experiencing the different weather changes you get while being on an island. Changing from hot warm sunshine to cloudy and faded with little droplets of rain.
Island sunsets are so interesting to me. I love all the abstract shapes that are created from the trees and plants ... it always seems to have so much more energy and vibrance. During the sunsets, I often thought of the local fisherman ... catching the fish for the village and getting to enjoy the beauty of being on the sea. You could always feel when the night was approaching ... starting to hear the lovely frogs singing to each other with the breeze coming in from off the ocean.
Hope you enjoy the inspiration..
Slip On: Missguided
Cuff: & Other Stories Skirt: River Island
Hat: Sensi Studio
Ring: Fail Jewelry, StefanieSheehan Bracelet: Failjewelry
Captured using iphone with some light editing with vscocam app ...
Florida
It was so nice to visit Florida for my first time ....
For Thanksgiving we headed down south to spend a few days with Rob's family. It was so nice to visit Florida for my first time .... spending quality time with the family and seeing where Grandma and Grandpa lived for so many years. Hearing the old stories and memories from when everyone was younger ... and how much things have changed over the years. It was refreshing to be able to catch some sun and admire all the beautiful clouds ... taking our time, not being in a rush and filing the days with random beach walks. I feel thankful for times like this when we are able to get together because they always help put a smile on my face ... :)
The tropical climate reminds of being home in Malaysia ... soft white sands on the beach ... lots of coconut trees and green palms wherever you look. I was fascinated with all the different palms and lush green. It inspires me to think of what we can plant around our garden sometime ... and hopefully give it a little of that tropical feel of home ... ;)
Here's a few inspirational photos from our trip. Hope you enjoy ...
Dress: Pippa Lynn (similar here, here) Hat: Anthony Peto
Bracelet: & Other Stories, Aprilsoderstrom
Shorts: Target
Ring: Tiro Tiro Bracelet: & Another Stories, Tube Bangle
Sandals: Sam Edelman ( in black )
Along the Coast
One of the dreams we have is to someday live in the forest.
One of the dreams we have is to someday live in the forest. When we get a chance every now and then ... Rob and I enjoy taking a drive and exploring the coast. Trying to relax in the forest going for short walks and taking a deep breath to enjoy the coastal air. The weather changes often and it's so nice to see how it transforms ... ;)
Looking at the nature all around is so serene and sheltering ... giving you a very comforting feeling. I feel like I'm getting a little green thumb ... hoping to learn more about the different beautiful flowers and greenery around me ... hehe. I find it a bit fascinating the different forms and shapes the trees become ... so unique from one another. Sometimes you get lucky meeting some cute little animal friends that pass by ... I think Cows are becoming one of my favorites.
Here's a few inspiration photos for you ... hope you enjoy ... ;)
All photos taken with two lenses, Nikon D300s, 18-200mm
Till then...
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Accidental Beauty
Rob and I have a dream of building a home together someday...
Rob and I have a dream of building a home together someday. We've spent many hours talking over ideas and finding inspiration on Pinterest ... visiting places like Fioli and the Hearst Castle to get ideas ... learning their styles and how people built homes back then.
On our road trips, we often pullover for abandon places that catch our eye ... taking a quick break to explore around like we were little kids ... giving you those little butterflies of uncertainty in your stomach. They are full of so many details that give them such a bigger story. I think of them as accidental beauty ... It's so interesting to picture in your mind what these places were like in their prime and capture the stories they still tell today.
Hope you enjoy the inspiration ... what are your favorite "Accidental Beauties?"
Photo are taken with Nikon D300s & 18-200mm lens.
Here is a tune we pick for you to enjoy too ...
White Out
Recently I've been practicing taking things slow and being more careful ...
I'm always afraid of wearing white due to how clumsy I can be ... hehe
Recently I've been practicing taking things slow and being more careful ... trying to be more lady like keeping my dress clean. I love the refreshing and clean feeling that wearing all white brings. It's one time when we can all feel a little more elegance about ourselves ....
While up on the Northern California coast we passed by this wonderfully aged barn. The rust and weathering gives things so much texture against the white misty fog. Driving by I was picturing myself wearing all white and running around. Here's a few photos from the scene I was picturing in my mind .... ;)
Hope you enjoy the inspiration ...
Bracelet: Tiro Tiro
Hat: Rag & Bone Jacket: Missguided Dress: Missguided Sneaker: Missguided
Ring: Fail Jewelry Bracelets: Aprilsoderstrom Sunglasses: Acne Studio Shoes: Missguided
Here are a few white out pick for you:
All photos taken with two lenses, Nikon D300s, 18-200mm and my 85mm
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Misty
Mist creates such a mystery for me ... things seem to always become more peaceful and quiet, slowing time...
Mist creates such a mystery for me ... things seem to always become more peaceful and quiet ... slowing time. It's often chilling, but provides such beauty and comfort to the eyes making things so much more magical and inspiring for photographs. Moments and views change with the fog lines ... blocking the distance, allowing you to only imagine what it could be. Giving you a moment to paint pictures in your mind ... ;)
On our recent trip we wanted to be more spontaneous ... allowing us to take our time and adapt along the way. Taking turns down smaller local highways and country roads that we always miss today using the larger interstates.
Last weekend we ventured up Hwy 1 with no reservations of where we were going to stay for the night. Heading north we ended up at a wonderful spot camping by the fire in Manchester State Park ... eventually making it all the way to Fort Bragg with many stops along the way. Each time I adventure along the coast it makes me love it so much more ....
Hope you enjoy these inspirational photos ... ;)
Shoes: Hudson Sunglasses: Acne Studios Bracelet: Failjewelry
Dress: Thakoon Addition
Shoes: Hudson
Top: St&Ard
This time I packed light, only took the Nikon D300s & 18-200mm lens.
Till then here is a little tune for you..
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At the Edge
Whenever we get to take walks along the coastline, it makes me think of being at the edge of the universe. Standing on the cliffs and looking out into an endless body of water...
Whenever we get to take walks along the coastline, it makes me think of being at at the edge of the universe. Standing on the cliffs and looking out into an endless body of water. It makes me think about all the possibilities and wonders that have been created in this world ... both naturally and manmade. It helps my imagination grow and reminds me that anything is possible.
I wanted to introduce our little buddy Koda ... he is one of our friend's cute little dogs staying for a short visit. Each time I look at him, I imagine him speaking with a strong british accent and sounding like a wise old grandfather with his white little beard. He loves to take his time while we walk ... investigating everything along the way ... checking each little sound he hears and hidden corner we pass. I really think he has human thoughts just like you and me ... ;)
It's always a guessing game trying to predict bay area weather. There are so many micro climates allowing you to pick and choose what fits your mood. Living in SF for the passed several years I've learned to go out prepared. One of our favorite getaways for a short walk is Rodeo Beach and Fort Cronkhite. It's too often that you become both warm and cold within a same minute, but it always such a treat with the wonderful views that you get to enjoy.
Here are some photos taken with two lenses, using my Nikon D300s, lenses 18-200mm and 85mm ...
Hope you enjoy and all have a wonderful week!
Jacket: House of Sunny Beanie: Opening Ceremony (similar here)
Bag: Proenza Shoulder Bracelet: Jenny Bird
Sandals: Michael Kors (similar one in different color here)
iPhone Case: Seconda Base
Shirt: Paul Smith Tee: Everlane
Jacket: House of Sunny Shorts: Zara (similar here)
Ring: Alice & Leon & Luv Aj (other shark teeth inspire jewel) Watch: Nixon The Kensington
Sunglasses: Ray-Ban
Shorts: Ted Baker (similar one here in Pairot Embroidered)
Till next time, here are a few links that we pick out.
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A Quiet Moment
I love when we have national holidays ... the idea of how everyone gets to have a play day and do anything they want ... what a treat!
I love when we have national holidays ... the idea of how everyone gets to have a play day and do anything they want ... what a treat!
When I was younger working on holidays, it was always so nice because I would make double pay or get extra days off from work ... ;)
These days I prefer to go away for my holidays ... looking for places trying to miss the crowds and commotion. Without the crowds I can relax a little more easily ... taking time exploring and being in the present ... being able to focus on the things you miss on those busy days.
Many of my favorite and relaxing moments on our 4th of July holiday was just driving around Joshua Tree National Park. We saw only a few other cars throughout the day, making it feel like our own little play ground ... ;)
We also made a stop by Pappy & Harriet's Pioneer Town and it was like an old ghost town ... kind of eerie, but in that fun kind of way ...
Here are some of the photos taken with two different lenses, using my Nikon D300s, lenses 18-200mm and 85mm... Hope you enjoy the pics ...
Thank you for stopping by.
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Homestead Life
One thing that I always feel when I am able to getaway or take a short trip, is that the days are so much richer and fuller...
One thing that I always feel when I am able to getaway or take a short trip, is that the days are so much richer and fuller. Time seems to slow and the clock doesn't move so much each time I look over. This is one of my favorite things about being away ... it makes me feel that I can take my time with things ... never having to be in a rush like most days in our normal lives.
We've been thinking a lot recently about living life in a more basic and uncomplicated way ... enjoying the simple pleasures life can bring. They always seem to be the things that bring us the most joy at the right times ... a warm shower when we are cold ... ice in your drink when it's too hot outside ...when you get to lay in your bed at the end of a long day. These are all such simple things, but bring us so much happiness when we actually focus on them.
For the July 4th weekend we found an old homestead cabin in Joshua Tree on Airbnb. We wanted to learn and see how some of the people were living life more simply down south in the desert. It was so nice and inspiring to see this change from the city. Rob and I would spend so much time just talking about what we would do and how we would do it if we tried life here in that way from time to time. Here are a few photos I captured over the days we spent in our little different world. Can't wait to share more photos from our road trip ... ;)
Hat: Rag & Bone Bag: Proenza Schouler
Boots: Hudson Shoes (on sale)
iPhone Case: Seconda Base
Hope you enjoyed this inspiration ... till the next time ...
Morning Walks
When I was growing up, I always wanted to be a sporty kind of person. I joined a handful of ...
When I was growing up, I always wanted to be a sporty kind of person. I joined a handful of teams and tried to keep as active as I could. I was a swimmer ... a gymnast ... I played volleyball ... and was on a badminton team or two ... ( ^ - ^ )
Trying all kinds of sports, seeing what sticks, and what I most connected with. After a while, I realized I enjoy sleeping and walking mostly ... wait I lied, I secretly love street dancing too. Can dreaming be a sport? I would like to play for that team too ... ( ^ o ^ )
Rob and I were thinking of ways to be a little more "sporty" and active, so we decided to start doing some morning walks. Trying to explore little spots of the city that we don't often get to see.
This week we took a trip out to Ocean beach and stopped by Andytown Coffee Roasters for a cup of coffee and some delicious muffins. A nice little neighborhood coffee shop where you are sure to receive a smile a quick conversation to get your day going.
We wiggled our way down to the beach and spent some time just taking in the breeze and ocean air before heading home. It's crazy to me how powerful beach environments can be. The beach always instantly relaxes me and lets me think a little less about things ... the air has a refreshing quality which is always what I remember feeling ... looking back and scanning through all my memories of being at the beach.
One of our highlights along the walk was meeting Pete ... an older italian man on his daily exercise routine. Pete has lived in the Outer Sunset for 50 years. He was telling us these wonderful stories about the neighborhood and how different things were back then. These days he just enjoys his walks along the beach and tries to keep life simple ... some advice I'm going to focus on ... ;)
We also stumbled upon this little Woodshop ... a beautiful space that we were admiring through the window. We were lucky enough to strike up a conversation and meet Danny as he was leaving for the airport. He gave us a quick tour of the workshop before he lift ... what a cool space and showroom. If you're interested in custom surfboard, cool chairs, furniture, or art pieces don't forget to make an appointment to check them out.
Thanks for dropping by ...
Camera: Nikon D300s Lens: 30mm Sigma, 85mm Nikkor
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Hearst Castle
Something I always love to do is dream. I look forward to it every night...
Something I always love to do is dream. I look forward to it every night and it gets me excited to crawl into bed. I love the idea of dreaming because you can use your imagination and make anything possible. Dreams allow me to practice and maintain using my imagination ... something we don't normally use as much the older we get. One of the dreams that Rob and I have is building a house or creating space that we can enjoy ... creating our own little world like the wonderful ones we get to visit.
I thought visiting old homes would be a good way to learn more and get ideas ... admire details and styles that aren't used in today's world ... and of course get inspired for things we can incorporate into our home when the time is right. Along our trip to San Diego we found this spot "Hearst Castle."
I hope you enjoy these photos ... I had a lot of fun day dreaming here ... :)
Built in 1919 it was a continuous work in progress and was never completed in Hearst's lifetime. It remains incomplete and sits atop a hill in San Simeon, CA. The ranch was originally 250,000 acres running 14 miles along the coastline ... rolling along as far as the eye can see. Talk about a big yard! When we toured the upper rooms of the main house, I found myself just staring out the windows ... beautiful views from each and every angle.
If you do plan to go there make sure you get the ticket ahead of time, they sell out fairly easily. The castle is a living museum so all tours are guided in small groups at prescheduled times. They last about 45 mins each. We took the grand rooms and upper suites tours throughout parts of the main house.
While exploring we also stopped by The Madonna Inn for dinner. I was fascinated how all the rooms are so unique ... the complete different stylings they all have. Perhaps next time we can stay here and I can get more pictures... :)
If you do plan to visit Hearst Castle and need somewhere to stay , this might be a fun spot for you ...
Till next time ...
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Road-trippin'
Do you like Road-trips? Rob and I have enjoyed them very much these days....
Do you like Road-trips? Rob and I have enjoyed them very much these days. We've been experimenting with what we really need to take with us, how to pack the car, and of course what snacks to throw in the cooler. We have set some new goals of trying to spend minimally and find places to explore right around us.
While driving on the open road there are so many beautiful moments that pass by ... I find myself always trying to capture them all ... click click click.
I am still learning what would be the best lens option I pack for a trip. On this trip I tried to only bring two lenses, my Nikon D300s 18-200mm and my 85mm.
One of the highlights as always was the drive on highway 1. The views of the mountains and beaches keep going and going for what seems like forever ... It takes a little longer on the coastal highway, but it always seems to be worth it.
A few places we stopped along the way:
Every time I see a vintage VW beetle I have flashbacks of the good memories driving my first car. Remembering the sounds of the car ... riding around my neighborhood with friends and playing all old mix-tapes. It also makes me think about spending time with my dad ... him teaching me and learning about my car, keeping it clean and taking care of it .... it was always enjoyable and something that I'll never forget. Thank you Papa!
Once we arrived Encinitas we stopped by Old Town San Diego too. If you have time, you should definetly check it out. Admission is free and you can spend as much time as you want exploring around. Fun for me to just walk around and see all these old houses ... trying to imagine the way life was back then and picture it in my mind.
These lovely chairs are so cool. I respect the detail and craftsmanship it took to make these wonderful pieces. So much use over the years and still in such wonderful condition. I also noticed I can't stop taking pictures of them ... so many pictures of chairs .. lol
Hope you enjoy ... Til the next time ...
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Filoli
Recently I've been trying to take more pictures of different subjects and styles that inspire me....
Recently I've been trying to take more pictures of different subjects and styles that inspire me. A lot of time I end up just using my iPhone since I'm so lazy to carry around my bulky SLR and It's starting to make me feel like I'm out of practice ... oops
To get things back on track I've decided to start practicing more. Recently I've been shooting a lot of landscapes. It's interesting how different it is compared to all the fashion shoots ... I feel like I've forgotten how to shoot with with an actual camera ... ;)
Here's a short little trip we took during memorial weekend to the beautiful estate
Filoli in Woodside, CA.
It's really amazing that there are so many hidden treasures around us in the bay area. It's only about 30 mins from the city. If you have some time you should try to check it out, but check for a Groupon first. They usually have some good deals.
The old architectural detail is lovely. You can't help but imagine what life would have been like here 100 years ago when the house was newly built. Beautiful tall ceilings with an interesting combination of decor and art. The garden is spectacular and one of my favorite elements.
Here are a few photos I captured ... hope you enjoy them.
Here are a few from my iPhone ...
Till the next time ...
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Staycation?
There were heat waves in San Francisco this past week. I'll be wishing we get more of them during this summertime season...
There were heat waves in San Francisco this past week. I'll be wishing we get more of them during this summertime season :) We spent time on our walks to all the usual streets ... lots of eggs and omelettes for breakfast along the way. How about you?
Another fav Inspiration Books Cereal Magazine
We usually love wearing the same style that is comfortable, and here is my hubby's new uniform outfit that he loves :)
*rollover the image to see what it is ...
Zara Leather Faux Jacket, Levis Pants, Tom Sunglasses and Tokyo Sneaker similar here
It took a few months to finally get these pictures framed! The 2013 Guide To San Francisco poster is a limited edition by David Ehrenstrahle. He also has a collection of different personal travel guide posters of all the cities that inspire him. I've been looking for a while for this Andy Warhol Moderna Musseet poster and finally got one on ebay ... yay. It speaks the truth too... I do only look at pictures.
Over the weekend while running random errands, we finally got to stop in this little Cafe Hollow. The simplicities and rustic feel of the design is very calming and creates a nice relaxing atmosphere. We just ordered some yummy lattes and an empanada to share. It was pretty delicious ... I believe best described as "Yumm!" ...
Anthiny Peto Rabbit Hair Felt Hat, Proenza shoulder Bag, Tiro Tiro Clarus Bracelet, Stefanie Sheehan Ring
Also, don't forget to check out the store next door Dandy. It is an extension of Hallow's retail space specialized in kitchen supplies and other gifts.
Have you heard of Bay to Breaker? It's been a part of San Francisco for over 100 years. Thousands of people wearing costumes walk and dance along the 12k run route that winds through the city :) It's the best time to just hang out with friends and do some people watching.
Meanwhile Sayhellomax is feeling a little tropical this week. Don't forget to head over and check out the new shoots of Tienlyn and my monochrome outfit with animal prints.
Till later then ...
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