Almond Blossom

I always start to feel as if spring is on the way when the almond trees in Provence start to blossom. We have several almond trees on our farm but none as established as these on a neighboring property. Although their trunks are gnarly and misshapen their blooms are delicate and exquisite in every way. 

There is a mighty mistral blowing today - a gale force wind of 100 kilometres per hour and more - so I dearly hope that these exquisite flowers are not scattered and blown to the heavens. This weekend I would like to take a long walk in The Alpilles Mountains behind our property to enjoy the views and luxuriate in their beauty. Like most miracles of nature we must appreciate it when we can - the almond blossoms are short lived and I don't ever want to take them for granted. 

I might even try and cut a few branches to arrange inside. I love the idea of big bowls of creamy blossom to brighten up the house for the weekend. I remember an old floral trick that my mother used when arranging blossoms. After she had cut the branches, she would lay them out on newspapers and spray the petals with a light hair spray - this would mean that the flowers would not drop and last much longer. I hope it works, anything to prolong their life - a year is such a long time to wait for another chance.

Have a wonderful weekend, xv