Monday, April 6, 2009

An Antidote for NW Dreariness

For many of us here in Seattle, winter/ early spring can be a serious problem. The drab monotone of grey skies, the moodiness of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the subtle sogginess of drizzle -- it is enough to push you over the edge. But there is a cure. Take 2 parts sunshine, 1 part vitamin D, and a splash of UV, and you'll get a life-restoring cocktail of Spring.

People who live in sun-soaked regions, such as San Diego, Arizona, and Florida can take the sunshine for granted. However, we Seattle-ites crave it. Give us a day of sun (especially when temps rise over 65), and we will be outside, soaking in the warmth. The layers of fleece and gore-tex peel off, and soon the pale skin of winter is exposed. It refracts the light at first, but then quickly absorbs it, and turns into a nice shade of burn. Well, at least it does for most of my Caucasian friends.

Anyway, this weekend was a sun filled escape for those of us who haven't been able to flock to warmer areas. Personally, B & I headed to the UW campus, to soak in the rays and enjoy the blooming cherry blossoms. Apparently though, we were not the only ones to have this idea. The Quad, where the trees are located, was saturated with people. But we were able to find a spot, throw down a blanket and people-watch as we picnic'ed. It was marvelous.

The blossoms did not disappoint either. The flower laden trees line three sides of the quad, adding a softness to the brick exteriors of the buildings. Rumor has it that if you get a bird's-eye view from the air, the cherry trees form a "W". But I've never been able to confirm this. So I guess I'll just have to write it off as urban myth...

Anyways, I hope that wherever you are, the sun is shining bright upon you as well. If not, hopefully, the photos below will help a little. (Not that you probably care, but the first couple pics are via my iPhone, and the last 3 blossom are from my DSLR which I added later. Oh, and I'm messing around with borders, hence the various sizes. - SKC)




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