Have we mentioned that we're starting to like this whole "season" business that we experience living out here? Spring is like a reawakening of the senses-- the bursts of color, the smell of fresh cut grass, and even the ridiculous coat of pollen that sends your immune system into overdrive all remind us that we are alive. This past weekend we took a short trip over to the National Arboretum to experience the azeleas in peak bloom.



There were butterflies


and critters


and a magical painting made of flowers on a hillside garden.


We decided to bring the tricycle from Lola, so that Linus could enjoy the hike big-boy-style. No one mentioned there would be hills.


So I huffed it


and at some points grunted my way along the trail.


I did all the work but the boys insisted we stop for a snack.


"No mine." is what Linus answers to a lot of questions. He's at the age when resource guarding is key to survival.


His ride parked along the trail.


And some more views from the hike.


We don't go to church, or believe in a god, but beauty like this makes us wonder about the workings of the universe and our tiny role in the natural world. It certainly reminds us to inhale deeply (despite the allergies), take in all that life has to give, and appreciate the beauty in each and every living thing.