Walking the dogs last week during a break in the rain, I realized the Linden Trees had bloomed. I did not notice because I was looking for them or even looking up, but rather because I walked into an invisible cloud of their scent that stopped me in my tracks. There were Linden Trees on my old walk route by the yellow house and I would slow my pace as I approached them. I have not imprinted their placement on my new path, though to tell the truth the dogs and I are more flexible than we used to be and do not follow the same route every day. Because of this, the intoxicating sweetness of their scent is always a delightful surprise, like running into a former lover and finding that all that's left is fond memories.
I'm working on a project for a friend and there's a large Linden Tree in the front yard of her house. I stop under it as I come and go and close my eyes and breathe. The smell is so sweet; it is as thick as syrup and I have the feeling that if I open my mouth and stick out my tongue I would taste it. I never remember when the trees are going to bloom and I never remember when the scent fades. So each year, I drink them in, thrilled that they have bloomed, grateful as long as it lasts.
Patricia, the scents of springtime are indeed intoxicating and I am so glad you are enjoying them!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
Beautiully expressed Ode to Spring. Thank you--I need this. Be well. Mary
ReplyDeleteWe moved this year, Patricia, and the new house is graced by a magnificent 100+-year old Linden. It's size and canopy have been most oft noted by visitors for the first time. But it was not until this week that I tied that intoxicating scent I was sniffing here and there actually was emanating from our glorious sentry in front. Your post was delightfully apropos. Should I find you lingering along your walk I'll completely understand!
ReplyDeleteThere is a very ancient Linden tree in the yard of the house on Martha's Vineyard that we rent every year. Until last year, I'd never seen/smelled it blooming, but due to bad winter, it was late. I quickly discovered that Edgartown is FILLED with Linden trees...and I also discovered that I'm violently allergic to these sweet smelling, lovely trees. After a trip to the ER, I had to stop sitting in the living room with the tree right outside the window, and stay in the small air-conditioned bedroom. HATE doing that, but really like breathing!
ReplyDeleteI did a lot of research on Linden trees and discovered that in the US, the pollen is not supposed to be airborne, so not allergenic. I guess those ancient trees on the Vineyard didn't get that memo! As much as I enjoyed the heavenly perfume all over town, I hope they will have already bloomed before I get there in several weeks