Mother's Day snow?

It snowed alright!  That perfect, magical snow that mystifies the beholder and discreetly renews the wonder of...  SPRING.  Each unique flake fluttered softly to the ground, painting the soft green landscape a creamy white.  Funny thing though, these flakes weren't frozen stars of ice - these flakes were millions of cherry blossom petals and rather than chilling the air - they warmed my heart and stirred my soul with daydreams and nostalgia.

My cherry tree welcomed me to Easton 14 years ago.  Standing sweet and silent in the backyard of my new home - it almost winked with promise of what was to come.  Over the years, as boughs widened, I tied swings for all three of my babies.  It canopied over many a birthday and picnic and challenged my children to climb onto its limbs higher and higher through the canopies.  It has held lanterns during summer soirees, holiday lights through many a winter and dangled hundreds of doughnuts on strings.  Offering refuge for birds, squirrels and skittish kitties alike - this gentle ornament of nature has grown into a majestic icon of beauty - even finding opportunity to grace the planters of Queset House during one of its many lavish parties over the years.

Mother's Day is her time to shine with flowers in peak, foliage in fullness and wonders of Spring all around.  As I stood in her shadow and reflected on the life I have lived since discovering her - she dropped a shower of petals in reply.  Just like that first snow of winter, I wasn't sure if she was cautioning me to prepare for the tough times ahead, teasing me to play in her magical display or simply kissing me on the forehead in the most intimate way an old fine friend can offer.  Over the years she has watched me grow, decorated many of my successes and even heard me cry when no one else was there.

This cherry tree reminds me that Nature offers more than landscapes.  The spirituality of sunny day, strength and fortitude in storm or quiet wisdom of secret friend - it's all out there just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.  Happy Mothers' Day - isn't it beautiful?