Tidal Basin Cherry Blossoms

 

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.