Cherry blossoms and beignets, Descanso Gardens, February 19, 2017

A soft rain was falling early this morning, but that never keeps me away.  In fact, being at the garden in the rain is one of my favorite times to visit.  It's peaceful, quiet, the air is fresh and the colors appear more saturated.  Today my husband joined me to walk and enjoy each other's company before breakfast at Maple, Descanso's weekend-exclusive restaurant.  If you have the opportunity to go, you must try the beignets.  Dipped in Vermont Maple Syrup, they are absolutely heavenly!  Today I saw the first blossoms on the cherry trees.  Soon they will will be covered in dainty pink flowers.  Nature is gearing up for her springtime spectacular and she never disappoints.

Cherry tree beginning to bloom.

Cherry tree beginning to bloom.

Gray sky.

Gray sky.

Oak forest.

Oak forest.

Water coming down the hillside from all the rain.

Water coming down the hillside from all the rain.

New life everywhere.

New life everywhere.

The green man stretching out his arms to greet us as we walked.

The green man stretching out his arms to greet us as we walked.

New blossoms.

New blossoms.

Camellia swirl.  Just gorgeous!

Camellia swirl.  Just gorgeous!

Forget me nots, a favorite of the fae.

Forget me nots, a favorite of the fae.

Fallen camellia flowers, like tiny valentines on the forest floor.

Fallen camellia flowers, like tiny valentines on the forest floor.