spring blooms in Portland

Spring Flowers

Dear Liza,

Our Portland spring keeps turning out more flowers, and I just can’t keep up!

The chestnut blooms are about six inches tall and smelling sweet.

As the daffodils and hyacinths fade a bit, the tulips have come up. Giant red ones…

and tiny yellow ones.

Wisteria blooms are climbing all over front porches, smelling sweet as candy.

And every tiny yard is edged with the fallen peels of cherry trees, drifting like soft pink snow.

Spring always feels extra-exuberant in Portland, maybe because every single living thing is so grateful for the warmth and sunshine after our damp, chilly winters.

Love,

Grandma Judy

Spring Visit to the Dead People

Dear Liza,

You know I love our local Pioneer Cemetery, Lone Fir. It has been used for over 150 years and always brings me peace and perspective.

In the spring, it is full of dandelions and dogwood blossoms, birdsong and baby squirrels.

The very, very dead folks seem to balance out the newness of spring, reminding us that all this newness comes and goes quickly. “Enjoy the beauty!” They whisper. “It’s gone in a blink!”

This year is shaping up to be one of many adventures. Camping with SOAK, art boothing with Auntie Bridgett, and maybe even a visit to you. It’s good to know I can carry the perspective of Lone Fir with me.

Love,

Grandma Judy