A neat line separates green grass and stacked oak leaves. The cluster of twenty deciduous trees defines the copse with green pine trees poking through the canopy but with indistinguishable trunks.
An evergreen magnolia proudly stands separately, showing off its abundant foliage to the bare oak branches. The oaks know they’ll be clothed in green again soon. The magnolia looks forward to her white flowers. They assure that it’s fine to do life differently.
Green shoots emerge from some bare soft ground with an isolated bunch of daffodils declaring Spring’s start.
The twenty trees are not alone. The icy February wind tugs at the stubborn leaves that refuse to fall. A bush’s movement leads the eye to a cardinal that just hopped between branches. She seems to be jealously eyeing her bright red potential mate. Five other cardinals accompany her next hop and the whole bush shakes to impress the standoffish one. Or perhaps to criticize him for so boldly revealing himself.
He starts a retreat to another bush and the first female starts her pursuit. They playfully chase, driven by an instinct that is more than just fun. Spring is the season for new beginnings, and optimism of what impending changes will bring.
A trampoline lies idle in the neighbor’s yard. Its leafy covering does not prevent it from revealing the family’s life stage. Meanwhile, this house’s driveway is clogged with bumper-sticker adorned cars. The aging East Carolina Pirates pennant suggests it is a college student’s residence, but one closer to graduation than matriculation. The abandoned firepit, barely visible above the ocean of oak leaves, reminds of past gatherings.
It’s a special week for this household. Saturday brings the first born’s wedding. The dress has been picked up and the veil adjusted. Provisions are being bought for the wedding party. The weather forecast is closely watched in anticipation of the outdoor ceremony. Nails and hair are being lovingly beautified.
The oak trees, the magnolia bush, and the cardinals join in the celebration of life’s new season. Congratulations Kendle and Todd!
The Adventures of the Cajunlimeys 