The dogwood is a favorite of mine. It shows itself early. Before the leaves of the surrounding trees have fully opened they appear like clouds suspended just below the treetops. The open and spread their wings, and then they are gone.
Throughout the summer, the dogwood simply disappears. It’s green leaves blending into the canopy. Only it’s dark twisted trunks give it away. For months they hide as spindly trees in forests of mighty oaks.
In the fall they fight to hold onto their green…
Giving into the transition slower than the rest, fighting the good fight…
Until only red remains and they alone are at the peak of their color. As the others start to fall, they take flight.
Bursting with color as the sunshines right through their translucent leaves.
Holding on long after the others are gone.
The first and the last.