Cherry Blossom Memories

We used to have a gigantic cherry tree in our back yard. My safety hazard of an 80s metal swing set rested beneath its great canopy. I spent many a summer afternoon sitting on my swing, kicking around cherry pits in the dirt. (This sounds awful, but I assure you it's a pleasant memory — I'm a thinker.) The cherry pits and the expansive shade were not good for the rest of our yard's ecosystem, and the tree eventually came down. Today I asked my dad if the petals on those cherry blossoms were pink or white. He thinks maybe white, while I think they were pink. How can it be that neither of us remember? 


The more I think about it, the more I think they must have been pink, because I have such an affinity for pink fallen petals on grass. They're so beautiful, unlike the mess magnolia petals make. Seriously if you have to rake up your tree blossom petals, it's not worth it. 


I am considering planting a pink-blossomed cherry tree in our yard if the opportunity ever presents itself. For the time being, though, I can enjoy my neighbors small ones that were planted way too close to our fence. If I'm patient, one day my kids will be able to swing underneath their canopies.


Every morning I see a a sign advertising a cherry blossom festival in Branch Brook Park. I figured it was out in Western NJ but apparently it's in Newark! More conveniently located, but less idyllic... It's happening from April 10th to the 18th so get it while it's hot if you're interested. Maybe I'll see you there.