Redbud Winter…
While the blooming of the daffodils and crocus, are attributed as the first harbingers of Spring, 
the blooming of the Redbuds is the reminder that winter still lingers. Every year, just as I start getting used to the warm, sun-drenched days of Spring, and begin to think that Old Man Winter is a distant memory; he slaps me with his cool, icy breath, reminding me, that he is not about to bow out gracefully. His cold, harsh breath stings my cheeks, turning them a color only to be rivaled by those of the Redbud trees that dot the landscape here in my beloved hills of Tennessee.
Redbud winter is upon me. The first of the four last hurrahs of Winter to visit the verdant hills and valleys of Tennessee before Old Man Winter, defiantly shaking his fist, throws in the towel and skulks over the hills not to be seen till he works his magic again in the fall.
Just as there are the four seasons, there are four distinct winters in my area: Redbud, Dogwood, Locust and finally Blackberry. Each is unique and renewed hope for better days dances before me like a kite following the lead of the cool March winds.
Redbud winter reminds me, that for everything there is a season. And yes, unpleasant as the colder weather is, this brief cool season shall soon pass...
RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage - Brampton, ON
Our Family Wants To Help Your Family!
Congratulations on the feature Michael. The photo is beautiful and the words, beautiful!
Mar 26, 2011 03:17 AM
New England Real Estate Center Inc. - Easton, MA
Realtor-Homes for Sale- Easton, Mass 02356
No matter what the season I enjoy the change into the next.
Anticipation, Anticipation.............. is making me wait lol
Enjoy the day
Mar 26, 2011 03:19 AM
Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate - Palm Springs, CA
Vickie Jean the Palm Springs Condo Queen
Michael I appreciate the feeling that went in to this piece as well as the lovely photo!
Mar 26, 2011 03:58 AM
Las Vegas, NV
Hello Michael and I have to agree with the others, you are a wonderful photographer & WRITER! And if you have any extra time on your hands maybe you could write some lines for some of my photo pics ... ;o)
Vegas Bob
Mar 26, 2011 04:07 AM
Chicago, IL
Michael, you out did yourself on this one. I felt like I was taking a walk with you through the seasons. Did notice some green finally popping up here in Chicago even thought "old man winter" is trying hard for one last snow fall.
Mar 26, 2011 04:17 AM
Pilkerton Realtors - Brentwood, TN
Realtor - Nashville TN Real Estate
Michael, my great aunt used to talk about the different winters like that. Especially dogwood and Blackberry!
Mar 26, 2011 05:12 AM
Atlanta Homes ODAT Realty - Love our Great City - Love our Clients! Buckhead - Midtown - Westside - Atlanta, GA
Concierge Service for Our Atlanta Sellers & Buyers
Dear Michael, One visit to see your photos before lunch! Have a happy day -
Always something beautiful waiting.
Lynn
Mar 26, 2011 05:14 AM
Sands Realty 210-414-0966 - San Antonio, TX
Broker, 210-414-0966, San Antonio TX Real Estate
I love seeing this picture. The redbud was my mother's absolute favorite.
Mar 26, 2011 05:19 AM
Helping people in transition - Cary, NC
Raleigh, Cary, Apex area Realtor
Very prophetic my friend. And, as always, a great accompanying picture to go with your blog.
Mar 26, 2011 05:41 AM
Canyon Lake, TX
Your talents are many my friend. Home inspection, poetry, photography what else do you have to introduce. Great photo.
Mar 26, 2011 05:49 AM
Caliber Home Loans - Encinitas, CA
San Diego Mortgage Banker
I used to live in the Midwest and I definitely miss the subtleties of the late seasons.
Mar 26, 2011 06:59 AM
Re/Max Chay Realty Inc., Brokerage - New Tecumseth, ON
South Simcoe, Caledon, King, Orangeville Real Esta
Michael, it was cold this morning, but that ship has sailed... Spring is HERE for good =)
Mar 26, 2011 08:03 AM
Franklin Homes Realty LLC - Franklin, TN
Franklin TN Homes for Sale
Although, I really enjoyed this warm spell we had, I am not prepared for 80 degree temps in March. I'm fine with a little cooling off to have a proper spring.
Mar 26, 2011 03:09 PM
David Tracy Real Estate - Houston, TX
David Tracy Real Estate for Buyers & Sellers
I LOVE RED BUD TREES! My mom has one in her front yard it is a beauty! I also love the leaves of Red Buds...
Mar 26, 2011 03:26 PM
Lyon Real Estate - El Dorado Hills CA - El Dorado Hills, CA
Realtor - El Dorado Hills & the Surrounding Areas
Hi Michael,
The Western Redbud is a native here in our El Dorado foothills. I haven't seen them blooming yet though. It's been way too cold and rainy here. Maybe they are blooming and I can't see them through the rain!!! Ours have magenta colored flowers. I'll send you a picture when I see one!
Mar 26, 2011 04:13 PM
EXP Realty 414-525-0563 - Brookfield, WI
WI Real Estate Agents - Luxury - Divorce
A redbud was a requirement in our front yard....and it took 3 before we had one that survived the Wisconsin winter...and I love it...not because it's red...but because the blooms are quite purple !
Mar 26, 2011 11:08 PM
RE/MAX Checkmate - Johnson City, TN
CRS, GRI, PMN - Northeast Tennessee 423-677-6677
And truer words were never spoken. One of winters harsh returnes is going on right now. Cold and gray.
Mar 26, 2011 11:44 PM
Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette 479-253-3796 - Bentonville, AR
AR REALTOR, Bentonville Real Estate Agent and Broker
Well done Michael as evidenced by the GOLD STAR!
We know not to put out annuals here until the last weekend in April. I have grown to enjoy those days of changing seasons.
Mar 27, 2011 01:58 AM
Kelly Right Real Estate - Hood River, OR
Customized Choices for your Real Estate Needs
I love reading your prose... how well you express yourself! Thanks for bringing that glimpse of spring to me!
Gretchen
Mar 28, 2011 04:52 PM
Rainmaker
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TeamCHI - Complete Home Inspections, Inc.
Home Inspectons - Nashville, TN area - 615.661.029
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