Magnolia Petals

 Planting a magnolia in your yard is an act of faith, and something of a gamble. They bloom early, along with the cherry trees, but unlike the cherries along the Tidal Basin, cold weather can kill the buds. But In the years that they do bloom, it's a magnificent sight. Like all the botanical beauties of spring, a magnolia in full flower is ephemeral. Soon, the petals fall. I love this moment, when the warmth of spring is just starting and all is magnolia-pink, above and below.