Wander in the Arborteum

We went on our customary Sunday morning walk in the Hoyt Aboretum - the weather was breezy, with breaks in the clouds and rather chilly at that high elevation. But the walk was fine - there were very few people around, compared to last Sunday when it was hard to find a parking space. All of the state parks and many city owned public spaces are closed, but this gem remains open. It is truly a gift and a solace.

The magnolias are starting to bloom - the Arboretum has an outstanding collection. Today's blip is the flower of a Sargent's Magnolia - Magnolia sargentiana var. robusta - a deciduous tree native to China. These blossoms are HUGE, which is why they caught my eye - 20-30 cm, or 7 1/2 to almost 12".  As we wandered through the collection, the fragrance and beauty of these gorgeous trees transported us to a distant place, far from the angst of today's world.

The extra is a not-so-great shot, but will give you a sense of the beauty of the place. The evergreens are Douglas Firs - the most common stately evergreen in Western Oregon.

A friend sent me an interesting link this morning - an imagined letter from Covid Virus to humans. I found it very moving...to tears actually. If you're interested, read it here.

Be safe, be well dear Blip friends!