Ed Fuentes

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — Tucked away on 12th at Hill, blossoms are in full bloom adding a brief spark of color a short portion of the block.

The last few weeks of cold and rain, followed by warm sun, made for an early bloom. Since California weather is unpredictable, you may want to detour and take a look before the light leaves are dried from the sun, knocked down by the next rain, or simply blown away by a brisk wind.

Staring at the pink trumpet trees (*thanks for the ID from reader Denise) can take lessons from the traditions of gazing at cherry blossoms, known as Hanami (flower-viewing). It's considered a full Zen-like moment when the sight of the vivid colors have a background of an ancient temple or shrine.

In Downtown, you will have to settle for the 1963 William Leonard Pereira designed glass and concrete tower––which in its own way is an ancient shrine.

In truth, when you look up from under the tree, the AT&T Tower makes an interesting background. The strong mid-century lines against the delicate bloom is not a common sight around town.