I grew up with a Red Bud tree in my front yard. It was a gift to my mother acknowledging 25 years of volunteering as an outstanding Girl Scout Leader. Tied to this thoughtful gift were 25 real silver dollars.

I have liked Red Bud trees ever since. They look particularly lush after a rain and change color radically in different casts of light. Here in Connecticut, there are not so many as in other places, but I still appreciate them. They still represent gratitude and honor to me, as well as sumptuous, spectacular color. Enjoy…