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!
xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
Beautiully expressed Ode to Spring. Thank you–I need this. Be well. Mary
We 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!
There 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!
I 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