Pink Perfection

It's that time of year when I visit one of my favorite trees in Vicksburg. No, it's not the majestic Gingko in the Vicksburg National Cemetery ... Or this old oak tree that's not too far away from the Gingko ... The tree I'm talking about is a rather nondescript little pink Dogwood tree located on a side street in a quiet neighborhood. It stands about 15 feet high and, in the four years since I've been photographing it, it has never occurred to me to take a picture of the entire tree. I guess it's kind of like that old saying about "not being able to see the trees for the forest." I don't really see the tree itself, because I get so caught up in capturing its exquisite flowers. I love standing underneath its canopy of pale pink blossoms, made even more beautiful with a brilliant blue sky filtering through its branches. There's just nothing like seeing God's masterpieces up close, and they never fail to awe and inspire me to think ... "Oh, Lord, my God, How great Thou art!"

One of God's Greatest Masterpieces

After waiting and watching for Spring for several weeks now, it almost sneaked up on me. The temperatures have been so warm that the dogwood trees seemed to pop into full bloom almost overnight — and I almost missed them! Last week, I was able to capture a few pictures of my favorite pink dogwood tree before its blossoms faded. This is my Father's world ... He shines in all that's fair ... In the rustling grass ... I hear Him pass ... He speaks to me everywhere.* If the dogwoods are blooming where you live, I hope you can take some time this weekend to get a closer look at them. They are truly one of God's greatest masterpieces. * Lyrics from the hymn "This is My Father's World" Words: Maltbie Babcock /Music: Franklin Sheppard