… the overcast began to clear and produced …
… these beautifully tinted sunset clouds.
Happy Monday.
After the Rain …
Tree Snow
This year the crabapple trees are literally covered in beautiful, mildly scented blossoms that are a joy to behold.
A nearby public garden has about 20 of these trees.
A recent bit of wind has caused many, many of their petals to start falling and drifting …
… covering the ground and the surface of a nearby pond in a lovely floral carpet.
The bounties of spring are innumerable; a promise of things to come.
Happy Sunday.
Saturday Scenes
A marmot couple …
… and a rhododendron …
… together with some snowflakes … Wait, snowflakes?
Actually, no. These are petals from two rows of crabapple trees!
And finally, a restful view.
We have 28 C (82 F) so it feels more like early summer than spring, but we’re expecting rain, a good thing after our string of warm days. Regardless of the weather, I hope that wherever you are, your day is going well.
It’s Friday Fleurday!
Two weeks ago I found a late blooming magnolia tree that was in a protected but north-facing location. As a result it was only getting early-morning sun and this was slowing its blooming period.
This tree is on one of my favoured daily ramble routes so I was delighted to keep a watch on its progress.
Covered in flamboyant, lush and beautiful blooms, it’s a real showstopper.
Each bloom is a delicate pink that fades to a soft white at the tips.
Magnolias are ancient; they are a part of the fossil record from 20 million years ago and are native to Asia.
It’s thought that they evolved to be pollinated by beetles as they existed before the evolution of bees.
Whatever their background, they are a stunning addition to the pantheon of spring blooms.
Happy Friday.
Lake Pursuits
With the arrival of May’s lovely sunny days and with our temperatures hovering around 25 C (77 F), attention is turning to more summerish pursuits. Beaches are becoming populated, boats have come out of storage or dry dock and even though the water is still cold – the rivers and creeks running into Okanagan Lake are swollen with snow melt from the mountains – swimmers are beginning to take the plunge.
Although we no longer recognise the ancient celebration of May Day with May poles, flower garlands, religious devotionals or even at all, perhaps it’s time we brought it back. The arrival of May – what a lovely thing to commemorate and honour!
Happy May 1.
The Next Step
I am likely “preaching to to the choir” but still felt it is important to share the following statement. It’s our next step forward.
The Next Step
This is a very important post-election piece from Marc Doll via Bernie at Equipoise Life. I hope you click the link above to give it (and the comments) a read. The electorate has spoken and the politicians are supposed to listen, so it’s time we ensure that they pull together for the betterment of our beautiful nation.
Fresh Leaves
I love all the new leaves that are emerging or about to emerge at this time of year.
So much healthy growth to appreciate and admire. Isn’t spring grand?
A Visit to the Countryside
Recently, we did a leisurely visit to the Similkameen Valley just to the south of us to buy some wine and to admire the orchards and scenery.
It was a lovely spring day and we also came home with some great wine, too. We have to wait a bit for the fruit, though!
Happy Tuesday.
Reblog: Secrets
Ultimate confidenceUltimate TrustUltimate Burden
Secrets
A beautiful picture of two little finches from Mark Wade at Photographic, Impressionistic, Illusionistic. To see more of Mark’s photos, please click the link above.
Mellow Monday
Since today is election Monday, I think we can all do with a little mellowing out, especially after having performed our civic duty.
Think of a quiet place to sit in the warm spring sun …
… or a calming view ..
… or lovely pink blossoms …
… and remember that this process is almost over.
It’s a good thing to have a little mental breather before we get on with the election returns that will start happening this evening!
Happy Election Monday.
In the Net! - Pictures and Stories of Life 