Beautiful blue skies with a brisk breeze
capped our Tidal Basin walk today.
We were sneaking in a visit today before
some closer to home days coming up.
Iconic vistas are a reminder of why
so many people trek to this spot in the Spring.
There is also the story of these views that are going away.
The first cherry trees were planted here
112 years ago as a gift from the city of Tokyo.
But, there has been significant damage
to the seawall that keeps the twice a day tides at bay.
We have been walking this basin for 36 years.
We can see the huge change to the trees with the
eroding soil that exposes the roots
and the damage of continual flooding.
Here is the mascot "Stumpy",
who has been determined to bloom,
no matter what the circumstances.
Portions of the seawalls have settled as much as 5 feet
since the late 1800's to early 1900's.
Nearly 1/2 of the cheery trees will be removed for this restoration project. It will take years for the trees to grow back for this sort of cherry blossom views. They plan to complete the project before the 250th anniversary of American Independence in 2026.
It has been awhile since we visited down here.
It was good to be back.
Loved our stroll with Jonah and Sara.
(though momma had her work out today).
Still lots of giggles with this little guy.
Our walk today was all about contrasts.
The pink and white blossoms.
The struggling old trees and the healthy, vibrant
younger trees away from the water's edge.
You just can't beat a walk on "peak day"
in the sun with the undulating, frothy
blossom laden branches.
A true treasure of Washington D.C.
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