On Sunday as the sun was getting low and the city was warm, we headed to Brooklyn Botanic Garden to see the Cherry Esplanade. For weeks I looked for tickets during this specific weekend, and they were always booked. But on Sunday morning, with rain covering the city, I thought to check at least one last time to see if there were any last minute visitor cancelations.
That same morning, the kids placed brick pavers in our local garden and planted vegetables to be harvested for the season. They got dirty and we slowed down during the day as I attempted to edit a chapter for the book. But as the day grew brighter, my own excitement for the evening grew along with it.
Of course, we visited BBG last summer, but this spring feels entirely different. New York City is showing off it’s springtime glory, and the only place to really take note (other than city sidewalks) is our favorite gardens. It wasn’t just spring and all that blooms that got me excited though. It was this looming energy of things to do. People to see. Music and theater, to enjoy.
Since the city announced the arts are coming back this summer (outside) to NYC, I’ve been eagerly scouring what, who, where, and when. So much of it is quiet, with world-famous jazz quartets playing in unassuming parks. But others have been watching ice skating from BAM during the last cold days in Prospect Park, Kusama: Cosmic Nature, and even a moment of reverence in the heart-stopping blooms in Brooklyn’s own Botanic Garden. I’m back on Time Out like my former 18-year-old self, finding all the things to do. It’s honestly thrilling.
The Cherry Esplanade at BBG provided and added to much of that thrill. It was evening on a Sunday before school, for goodness sakes. But it was mostly the vision of my children weaving through trees and laying in the grass, during the five minutes and twenty eight seconds of “loved” composed by Michael Gordon. It’s an installation in honor of those we’ve loved and lost in the pandemic. It was the most beautiful thing we’ve seen in a very long time. And what a way to honor our hearts and time’s changing hand.
Anything beautiful you’ve witnessed lately?
I used to live across the street. Springtime at the BBG is magical. Thank you for reminding me!
That’s so amazing! In 1000% agreement.
x
I was there on Sunday too when the sun came out. 💗 Truly thrilling and such a joyful experience. So glad you enjoyed it too! Love the photos you captured!
There’s nothing like cherry blossoms to announce the arrival of Spring. A year ago at the start of the pandemic I remember taking shade and comfort under their beautiful pink clusters. They haven’t blossomed here in Berlin yet but I’m looking forward to that wonderful explosion.
Love the photos! Love seeing you three!