Boy, my last post was a downer, huh? Believe it or not, spring in LA isn't all bad. One of my favorite events in spring--something I look forward to all year long--is the blooming of the Jacaranda trees.
Here's the Jacaranda closest to my home, visible from my daughter's window and our patio. I won't lie--out of all the Jacarandas in my neighborhood, this one is the most resplendent. The spirit of this tree is sweet and proud.
I don't have a very formal relationship to this tree. She's on our neighbor's property and the street gets a fair amount of traffic, so I don't feel comfortable making offerings. But the relationship we do have is friendly and gentle. My daughter likes to play underneath her and pick up her blossoms. I say hello whenever I pass.
Here are five absolutely true facts about the Jacaranda:
1. The Jacaranda writes beautiful poetry, which leaves readers breathless and has been nominated for several national awards. But when you ask her how she feels about her success, she only smiles and says, "I just can't imagine not writing." She's not in it for the fame.
2. One time this fight broke out on Hollywood Boulevard between two twenty-somethings who'd had too much to drink. But just when it looked like they were going to start wailing on each other, the Jacaranda showed up and laid a hand on each of their arms. "Friends," she said, softly. That was enough to calm them down.
3. The Jacaranda woke up like this. Flawless!
4. Exhausted from putting the kids to bed? Not a problem. The Jacaranda will come over to your house, give you a scalp massage, and make you a cup of the best tea you've ever had while putting on your favorite movie. She just cares about you. She doesn't have kids herself but somehow she gets it.
5. See that dress she's wearing? She made that herself. In one afternoon. With no pattern. I was there.
So, if you live in an area with Jacaranda trees, give one a hug! They embody the beauty and exuberance of spring.