Essential in the enjoyment...was what my trip to Los Angeles was this time around...

I ask myself 'why the heck am I not residing in California?' These photos were taken early March...early March!!!

It was a breath of fresh air being out there for a few days...I took advantage of outdoor activities, strolls along the beach, and eating outdoors. Always have a great time visiting friends and family in Los Angeles, and of course hitting the markets and devouring their fresh produce!

Can't wait to go back for some more 'fun in the sun!' hahahaha...pretty cheezy:)

Enjoying a stroll in Manhattan Beach with good friends Linus Kim and Bobby Choy...and paddle boarding for the first time (you can stand or sit)!

Bare foot in the sand never felt sooo good! Chillin with Linus and Joann...

Green tea latte @ Urth Cafe...Cousin Hannah brought me Paulette Macaroons!!!

Enjoying breaky @ Urth cafe with Hannah and Linus...

Curried chicken salad @ Urth cafe...make your own peanut butter at Whole foods!!!

Macaroons...afternoon snack with Trader Joe's pilsner & Japanese green tea kit kat...to die for!

My absolute favorite veggie: Beet roots!!! Definitely a hard find in Seoul...

The arrangement before these made it into the oven:beets, yellow squash, sweet potato, brussel sprouts

All cut up and ready to go!

Preparing cream orecchiette pasta with chicken sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, mushrooms...

Then preparing a rack of Australian lamb...for those who know me, this is one important item I must serve for special occasions:)

It's been over a year since I prepared lamb (way too $$$ in Seoul!). I was happy to share with friends in LA on my recent visit...and of course, to fill my cravings as well :)

The final plating...rack of lamb with mint-basil pesto and cream pasta...forgot to add the roasted veggies. Btw, this photo does no justice (as I didn't take this one!)