The Enchanted April: A Perfect Spring Story

Among the many charms and delights that each Spring holds for me,

is the yearly reading of one of my most favorite books: The Enchanted April.

For those unfamiliar with Elizabeth von Arnim's 1922 novel, the story revolves around four very unlikely travel companions...four English ladies who have responded to an advertisement seen in The Times...and find themselves renting an Italian medieval castle for the month of April.

What begins as a desire to escape and retreat within themselves (each of the ladies for their own reason), results in them finding their alignment, thanks in large part to such a heavenly setting, and they blossom and evolve in a very real and genuine way.

It's a charming and fun read full of delightful characters with very unique personalities, and the descriptions of the gardens and castle are enough to persuade me to read it again and again!!

For the ultimate in easy listening, I love the free audiobook on LibriVox best.

 ...a perfect early spring story=)

Love,
Mademoiselle♥Mermaid

Maximum Cool: Maxi Caftan Dress

Typically I gravitate towards tropical brights...

saturated, fruity-sorta colors!!...

But right now, eternally chic, basic black is really having a moment with me.

I love the simple elegance of a flowing black maxi dress. 

So easy to wear...

and it's like a blank canvas ready to paint on with fabulous accessories!! 

How about adding a stack of dazzling bangles?

...or a one-of-a-kind statement necklace?

...or maybe a sensational pair of sandals!!

Any way you style this perennial favorite, you'll love making it your own!!

....Fluttering around the resort or spending a quite morning on a hidden beach...

It's a boho beach day favorite I can't do without;)!!

Black caftan maxi dress: Find it on Etsy.

Love,
Mademoiselle♥Mermaid

Mermaid Monday: An Enchanted April

Once upon a time, in an enchanted April...
 ...this gorgeous teal and ruffled creation was daydreamed and stitched into being!!

Inspired by fairy tales and The Enchanted April- a favorite Springtime read of mine,

this unforgettable piece is full of lighthearted charm and pure fantasy!!

Featuring breezy cotton gauze and satin ribbon ties, it's a fantastic fashion adornment that makes it easy for you to create your own look with it on a whim!!

Now available in a rainbow of colors!!
...Get the delightful details on Etsy=)

Love,

Mademoiselle♥Mermaid

Friday Flower Pick: Coral Rose

It's the first Friday Flower Pick of April!!

...and a gorgeous rose, arrayed in delicious coral/pink/peach hues

...is just the thing to set the mood for an early afternoon stroll in the spring sunshine. 

This particular bloom was spotted in the Marina del Rey Fisherman's Village, dazzling the Sunday brunch and cruise crowds with it's intoxicating scent and beauty!!

Don't forget to stop 'n smell the roses when you can=)!!

....and have a fun 'n fabulous weekend!!

Love,
Mademoiselle♥Mermaid

Wednesday Words of Widsom

..."Something really wonderful is going to happen today!!"

 I love saying this little phrase upon waking.

...especially on a spring morning, 

just before dawn, 

when my energy seems totally renewed!!

It's easier then to believe in the magic and perfection of the universe...

and to remember that thoughts are things=)!!

Wishing you a magical and memorable Spring...

Welcome to April!!

Love,

Mademoiselle♥Mermaid 

Manhattan Beach Cruisin'

Over the weekend I enjoyed a fabulous bike ride down the coast...

Pushing off in Santa Monica, passing through crazy, colorful Venice, checking out the Fisherman's Village in Marina del Rey...

and finally ending up on the glorious and very blue Manhattan Beach Coast.

The 20+ mile bike ride was not with out some challenges (hello windy spring day!!)...

...and some rewards (hello Mimosas at Scotty's!!)

The sights, sounds, and adventures of beach cruise did not fail to delight=)!!

Love,
Mademoiselle♥Mermaid

Friday Flower Pick

I certainly can't accuse today's Friday Flower Pick blossom of being uninteresting!!

...Spying these flowers from across the street, I made a beeline to 'em for unique photo session!!
I must admit to not having a clue what they are...but the fun shapes 'n colors sure are delightful!!

Happy♥Friday!!

Love,

Mademoiselle♥Mermaid