Redbud Petals

 The redbuds have begun to bloom, Their distinctive lavender-tinged petals forming a haze among the fresh green leaflets of all the other trees. As I approached one early bloomer, it almost looked like someone had laid a small rug out on the sidewalk right under the tree. The falling buds were scattered all over, converging in the cracks, mingling with tiny green leaves of violets that were trying to take root in those same cracks. It was a magical little composition, like a prettily wrapped birthday present. Here today, then blown away in the approaching rains and winds.