It's been 17 years since I've experienced the transition from winter to spring. I'd forgotten how wonderful this time of year can be.
The cherry blossoms, known as sakura, have been in full bloom for slightly over a week. The air is crisp and clear, sun proud, sky a perfect spring blue.
Breathe in the flower-tinted smell of renewal. You can't help but feel refreshed, invigorated. Close your eyes, and the sounds of birds dominate...chirping, tweeting, squawking, squealing...harbingers of the new season.
The monotone and silence of winter has given way to a profusion of colour, fragrance and sound. I'd forgotten how wonderful this time of year can be.
