those blooming trees

It's Jacaranda time in Long Beach and I love it. The sidewalks are dotted with these purple beauties and the streets are strewn with their blooms. I remember I flew out of the Long Beach Airport one year for Women's Conference and was amazed at how many lavender lovelies there were down below. Now I get to see them up close and personal. We actually had a few Jacaranda trees in my backyard while I was growing up (wonderful choice, Mom), but I mainly remember the pods. They are flat, hard and round. So interesting. I loved the flowers too, but I appreciate them even more as an adult. I think I'll have to plant a Jacaranda someday. They make me happy.

(Jacaranda in the summertime all decked out for the wedding last summer. They're nice trees any time of year.)

we're outta here

In two weeks. Not that we're leaving for good, but our spring fling is official. Kent will witness a game at Bernabéu stadium and I will get to stand in my field of lavender. The flowers might not be in bloom yet, but that's okay, I'm sure it will still be lovely. I tried to make it to France a couple of years ago, but there were some last minute complications, so I'm trying again, this time with a husband who can't back out.

It took awhile for us to purchase the tickets. We're both a little indecisive (ex. it took us about 45 minutes to decide which shower head to buy at Bed, Bath & Beyond), but the investment will be worth it. I've never gone on a trip abroad that I regret taking. Maybe I've done some so/so road trips, but those international journeys are wonderful. They are mind-opening. I know it's supposed to be eye-opening, but I like mind-opening. Different cultures, people and food. Always a good experience.

Anyway, time to brush up on the Spanish and learn a bit of French. Bonjour....Au Revoir....Oui....Parlez-vous francais? I think that's all I know. I need a two week crash course.