A Stormy Spring Evening

"Faith is not simply a patience that passively suffers until the storm is past. Rather, it is a spirit that bears things- with resignations, yes, but above all, with blazing, serene hope."
~ Corazon Aquino

We're inside now, Charlie T. and I, and we're fully enjoying this evening storm. Won't you join us as we sip raspberry sangria tea, read magazines, and listen to the plip-plop of the raindrops?

As the storm approached, Little Peep and I took a stroll through the lawn. We noticed some of the bushes, shrubs, and trees beginning to show some signs of life. Ever the adventurous ones, we took off with the camera, in full hopes of capturing these blooming delights before their warm springtime shower.

We came across this little guy. How he managed to settle in along the sidewalk, we have no idea. But, we're glad he did. Even if he's the only one, he's pretty sweet and a welcome addition to the habitat on Dott Avenue. Against the stormy sky, he almost looks as if he's glowing. Or, perhaps he's just happy to share a pad with us.

As if begging for a drink, the Sand Cherries turned up their tiny faces, smiling at the sky and showing their lovely delicate petals. It's amazing how beautiful they are if one takes the time to truly study their intricate features. Sand Cherries- it's good to see you again.

Although these pollen packers make me sneeze, they also cause me to travel down memory lane. You see, a few years ago when Chad-o and I were just friends, he was contemplating cutting down this delightful maple tree. Being that I'm a huge fan of vegetation, I did my best to persuade him against it. Realizing that my highly-honed debate skills were failing to produce the necessary results, I went into Rachel Carson mode. I climbed the tree and stayed there. I named the tree. I called him Terrance. Thankfully, all my antics worked. To this day, Terrance goes by no other name, provides me with peaceful shade, and houses my little friend the tail-less squirrel. (It's honestly true!)

And, it also appears as if Miss Crab Apple is making her annual appearance. How adorable are her delicate pink blossoms?