Cherry Blossoms (Sakura)

Hello! Can you guess who I am? I sleep all winter long, tucked inside a tiny brown bud on a tree branch. It is so cozy and warm. When spring comes and the bright sun tickles my branches, I know it is time to wake up! Pop! Pop! I burst open and join all my friends. Together, we make big, fluffy, pink and white clouds that float on the trees. I smell so sweet, like a yummy treat. If you get very close, I might even tickle your little nose!

You can call me Cherry Blossom. In a country far away called Japan, my special name is Sakura. For a very, very, very long time, way back since a time called the Heian Period which began in the year 794, people in Japan have celebrated when I arrive. They have happy picnics under my branches. These picnics are called 'hanami,' which means 'flower viewing.' Families and friends bring yummy food and lay down soft blankets. They laugh and play and look up at my beautiful pink flowers dancing in the wind. I am only here for a little while, just a short time. My visit reminds everyone to enjoy happy, sunny moments together.

My arrival means winter is over and spring is here. It’s a time for new beginnings and new adventures! A long, long time ago, on March 27th, in the year 1912, the people of Japan gave thousands of my trees to another country called the United States. It was a special gift of friendship. Now, I bloom in many places all over the world! When you see my soft, pink flowers, I hope you think of happy times with your family. I hope you think of all the friends you love to play with. Look for me next spring!