Looks like Spring is finally here in California and I'll be putting away my rain boots, but I will NOT be putting these away. Instead, I'll be looking for new warm weather ensembles and different ways to wear my favorite kicks - cowboy boots.

Lucky Magazine says "They're sexy, seasonless and unfailingly cool" and they published a handy city-by-city shopping guide in the February 2011 issue.

I bought mine online at this site. As you can see the selection is vast, but as always budget can narrow it down pretty quickly.

There are lots of good brands if you like a traditional or vintage style - Stetson, Tony Lama, Corral, Lucchese and Old Gringo. For an edgy, urban take on the cowboy boot try this one from Mark Nason.

Looking for an all-round Western apparel shopping experience? You can't beat the Boot Barn.

If you're in California you should consider scheduling that shopping trip in late July so you can attend the CA Mid-State Fair - an excellent opportunity to wear your new boots and take in all the fashion do's and don'ts.

And for one of my favorite watering holes in the Central Valley go here. Now this is the kind of country I like y'all.