Spring ahoy!

Ancient cherry tree near Trinity Cathedral. (SOOC)

Remember last July when I started showing you evidence of autumn?
I bring you glad tidings! Spring is on the way.

Not only is the cherry tree blooming (look large for more pink on twigs), but the magnolias in the cathedral courtyard are covered in fat grey fuzzy buds.

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Tomorrow is Veteran's Day, which used to be called Armistice Day. We sang this hymn which brought tears to my eyes. It was originally a hymn of the Royal Navy and all the verses were about the sea, but we sang a more inclusive version. The tune is here.

God bless all those who serve in harm's way in space, air, land, or sea.

Almighty Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep:
O hear us when we cry to thee
For those in peril on the sea.

O Christ, the Lord of hill and plain
O'er which our traffic runs amain
By mountain pass or valley low;
Wherever, Lord, thy brethren go,
Protect them by thy guarding hand
From every peril on the land.

O Spirit, whom the Father sent
To spread abroad the firmament;
O Wind of heaven, by thy might
Save all who dare the eagle's flight,
And keep them by thy watchful care
From every peril in the air.

O Trinity of love and power,
Our brethren shield in danger's hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them whereso'er they go,
Thus evermore shall rise to thee
Glad praise from space, air, land, and sea.



Mouthwatering is today's DDW challenge topic.
Kookaburra! Unless you think the cherries will be mouthwatering when they ripen from these spring blossoms.