Friday night at the Library of Congress

Trish, this post's for you...

Intermission and a semi illegal shot. The "friendly nieghborhood" usher came up to remind me that photography of the performance wasnt allowed. Seeing as this tuning was less a performance and more of a necessity, I asked if I could take pictures. FNU was a bit quizzical (i think my logic threw him off) but decided it was ok.

The date. Giving me his best "serious listener to long classical pieces" look.

The desert. Yum. Courtesy of a great desert shop in little Korea...Chocolate mousse and Coconut mousse. Dont ask me which was my fave because they both delighted my taste buds.

As promised, sis. Better late than never...love you!

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Kite Festival & Cherry Blossom Festival

For those of you that know me, I have a life list.  These days people are calling it a "bucket list." I have had my life list for years - since at least the start of college.  I've added to it, adjusted it, laughed at myself and generally love my list.

The Cherry Blossoms in DC have been on the list for a few years now. And, I can say that this past Saturday, I experienced them. They arent in full bloom, and I was one of hundreds who enjoyed the spectacle...but, the point is that I sailed through another hearts desire.

Saturday was the start of the Cherry Blossom festival - a festival which welcomes spring and celebrates the gift of 200 cherry blossom tree's given to our nation from Japan many, many years ago.  As a part of the kick off festival, there is a Kite Festival.  So much fun and bliss to be had.  I have it on good authority that kite flying on the national mall is ONLY allowed on this one day.  So, I have done that too.

Here is a small selection of my photographic bliss from the day...more to come as I spend some early mornings over the next week at the tidal basin with my beautiful, elegant, PINK cherry blossoms...

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Ahhhhh Spring

I am sitting by the window, barefoot, watching the last moments of light creep over the edge of the earth.  The birds are singing a song of dusk and there is a breeze coming into my window. Granted, that breeze is getting a bit chilly at 730pm, but I cant bring myself to close it quite yet....my feet are remembering what its like to be undressed.  I painted them this afternoon - a nice mango like color.

This morning on my drive to work, I began to really notice a soft glow on all of the trees - the beautiful budding process that provides a touch of color to the once dormant trees.  It brought a smile to my face as I tried not to slow down traffic by this tiny grandeur of nature.

Prior to my "life on the east coast" I hadn't give much thought to seasons.  Sacramento has an anemic fall, a rainy winter a sneeze of spring and a nice long hot summer.  There just isnt a lot of time spent on the seasons out there! Since the winters are mild, spring just eases on in with very little procession or fanfare.

Having now experienced a bit of summer, a longer fall and one snowy winter my eyes are adjusted to seeing tiny changes in weather and nature.  Just coming off the closing cusp of a cold, cold winter, I embrace even the smallest glimmer of spring.  Longer daylight, sunlight and warmth - the tender process of budding and breathing - almost as if nature is exhaling the chill and solitude of winter.  There is a tangible anticipation and eagerness for spring.

So, I continue sitting here, mango toes and open window, squeezing the last drops of dusk and hoping that the 55 degree weather high this afternoon will remain just a bit longer on my skin.

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Sweet Sister

I really have the best sister ever.  You may think that your sis is cool, and I am sure that she is, but mine is the best!

On the 13th of February, I recieved a box from 1800 flowers. Now, this is strange because I NEVER get flowers! I couldnt think of any admirers, and I certainly dont have a boyfriend. My parents are serving missions in Russia and none of my girlfriends would send me a bouquet.  Furthermore, the label said something about southern Cal.

As I opened the box, the most beautiful dozen roses appeared. I was in shock.  As I looked for the card, who should it be from? My sis and her family. I was speechless and shocked.  My mind raced to the suprise flowers she sent for my college graduation and the other times she has thoughtfully sent me things to celebrate an event.

I was touched beyond measure.  I was with them last year for the holiday, and so here she is, ever the big sis and friend, sending me flowers (and a box of chocolates!).

I love you sis. Thanks for being so sweet and sending me the most beautiful roses!!! They are now drying in my closet so I can enjoy them a little longer...

Love you sis!!

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