It’s a shame that we didn’t see any sakura when we went to hanami at Hirosaki, but at least we got to see some beautiful ones close to home! We picked up some McDonald’s and headed down the street to the Spring Festival at Shimoda Park.

The beautiful trees were in full bloom, quiet Japanese music was playing throughout the park, and picnickers dotted the grass. We didn’t stay too long, but we strolled around the lower part of the park by the pond, enjoyed the cherry blossoms, watched the ducks, and let Rhino run around at the playground.

I was hoping to get a nice photo of Matt and the boys, but Heron just wasn’t very happy. I thought by now that he’d warm up to Matt a little bit, but he hasn’t much. It’ll happen soon, though!

I wish the blossoms lasted longer. They’re all ready starting to blow off the branches in the wind. I’m just glad I was able to snap a few pretty shots before they disappear for the year!