It may be a soggy rainy Saturday, but yesterday morning I took an hour or so to walk around the immediate neighborhood with my Nikon (over a three block rectangle) just so I could photograph a sampling of what is blooming.

This week it’s almost like a signal was sent out and all these shrubs started to flower at the same time. So I walked around the Calvary churchyard, the Howard Memorial church grounds, then down Patrick to East St. John and back down St. David.

Some of these specimens are carefully cultivated and shaped, some are more natural – just hanging around and doing their best. Regardless, this neighborhood looks so very good all dressed in spring.

Azalea, Camellia, Plumb, Dogwood, Iris, Fringe Flower, Rosa Banksiae, Magnolia liliiflora, California Broom. Just take a look at this collection of photographs and – like me – be delighted.

Better yet, take a walk around the old section of Tarboro and see for yourself.

But until then – and because the rain here is knocking some of the blooms off even as you are reading – click on the first image and then scroll through; I dare you not to smile!

I am grateful to have not only eyes but also a heart that sees clearly. And I agree with Ralph Waldo Emerson, the Earth absolutely does laugh in flowers.

Peace, blessings, and joy – DEREK