I hope you enjoyed meeting some of my neighbors who live around where I work in Washington. I know they were glad to see you; new faces are always welcome around here. In fact, not only does everyone keep asking about you (How are your friends? Did they like us? They were fun!), but they’ve been bugging me to invite you back. And since several new folks have moved in since you last dropped by, I thought it was high time we took another stroll.
Made quite the splash when they moved in
I grew up hearing these called Tulip Trees. Showy denizens of the neighborhood, they come on strong with their big, bold, fashion statements that practically shout: We are here! Encounter us! Which I do, and did, for the short time they emblazoned themselves on the scene. They lose their flair so quickly, in about half the time as cherry blossoms. It’s as if they use so much energy at the start, they don’t have enough left for the finish.
The Tidal Basin doesn't corner the blossom market
Cherries aren’t the only show in town, this friendly fellow will remind you if you stop by for a chat. Standing perkily on a street corner next to a quaint, slightly run-down brick pile, he adds a festive, happy touch to the well-worn scene.
Keeping a low profile
Believe it or not, there are some moments in life when you don’t want to be holding your head high. Sometimes, low is better. When you do, you just might be lucky enough to become acquainted with fine folks like this tribe of grape hyacinths. Used to people not expecting too much from them, they’re always looking for ways to surprise with their lush, purple accomplishments.
Orange Brethren
I hope you don’t mind, but I wanted to bring you back to Union Center, the heart of the floral neighborhood. Everyone’s agog and a-buzz at the Orange Brethren’s arrival. These days, I sit down at an outdoor cafe for coffee and chat and get tired of only hearing, “Did you hear what the Oranges said?”, or, “I can’t believe what that young Orange Brother did!” Honestly, can’t anyone talk about anything else around here?
Hullabaloo in the Town Square
People are like that. I heard about a riot in Union Center and dashed off to see what was what. We’re such rubbernecking voyeurs. I only found this riot of color, an explosion of floral brilliance. Felt foolish for being so taken in, but the glory of the scene, the gorgeous hustle-bustle made it all worth while.
Integrated block
I’m proud of my progressive neighborhood. Pansies (and not just any pansies, but the well-known Purple Pantalones squad…you know what I’m talking about…) allow a bevy of ivory tulips to push their way into the middle of the conversation and not just permit them, but completely welcome their elitist presence. A perfect picture of the totally different, completely culturally diverse, dwelling together in harmony.
Cuts a swath
I can’t tell you how glad I was to see this bright family move in. True, many mouths to feed, but wow, what a splash they make! It’s almost like they generate a light of their own, a red, yellow beacon brightening the whole neighborhood. A hundred smiles on a hundred stems.
Impossibly Pretty
I’ve had my eye on this gang ever since they were little tubes of lipstick on stems. Even then, they captivated. Not only the colors, but their quiet dignity has always impressed me. They don’t go to lengths to show-off their good looks; they just calmly, with poise and presence, are who they are.
I’d like to stay out a little more, but I’ve got to be getting back to the office. I hope you enjoyed our time together. Give me a call next time you’re in town so we can take another stroll together.
