April 2020. A month of adjusting to many changes and creating a new daily rhythm. A month without writing and publishing — almost. On this day of April I am presenting a hanami sampler.

Daily solitary walks around the neighbourhood not only slowed and soothed my busy mind but also filled my heart with joy and gratitude as I witnessed the unfurling of spring blossoms on the flowering cherry and cherry-plum trees. The following photographs are presented in sequence of blooming period.

‘Akebono’

‘Somei-yoshino’

‘Shirotae’

Prunus cerasifera (cherry plum)

‘Kanzan’

‘Shiro-fugen’

Viewing the blossoms and branches through the camera’s lens and adjusting my position to try to create a pleasing composition compel me to focus on what I see, moment by moment. All other thoughts recede.

This is beauty and solace in the time of coronavirus.