Outfit August, day 31: floral extravaganza

Sometimes people wonder why I wear ginormous flowers on my head all the time. The day trip I took to Shelburne Falls yesterday confirmed the two main reasons: it makes me feel more like myself, and it gets positive reactions from people everywhere I go.

Top and skirt: thrifted, flower crown: Boohoo, necklace: vintage key on a chain, earrings: from a little shop in Shelburne Falls

I figured I’d wear my biggest flower crown to visit the Bridge of Flowers–because when in Rome, dress like the scenery, right? I got so many compliments from strangers, and even had two different people ask if they could take my picture. I love when random people want to photograph me–it makes me feel so famous. 🙂 And in general, I love fa(t)shion as a conversation starter: a way to have small positive interactions with friends, acquaintances, and strangers alike.

The flower bridge was gorgeous as always, especially with all the dahlias in bloom.

This rose had the most amazing scent, almost like a peach.

In addition to the flower bridge, we also stopped in my favorite bookstore, Boswell’s Books, which is run by a very erudite kitty.

After spending some time in the town center, we took a ridiculously steep hike up to the fire tower. We had attempted the same hike a few months ago, the last time Steve, my brother, and I met up my parents in Western Massachusetts. That time, my mom and I gave up after about ten minutes and walked around the town instead, while the menfolk successfully reached the summit.

This time, the weather was less humid and the ground was less slippery, so we stuck it out. It was an intense hike–tough on the calves going up, and painful on the toes going down. I’m glad I did it, but I will definitely never hike that trail again.

At long last, we reached the fire tower.

The views from the top were spectacular: in every direction, fields and rolling hills blanketed in late-afternoon sunlight. There’s nothing quite like being on top of a mountain and seeing a panorama of wilderness, dotted with only the smallest hints of civilization.

It always makes my heart happy to see just how much of Massachusetts is still green and wild.