With the warmth of the sun, our magnolia tree burst into bloom this past week.  The delicate white petals broke from the catkins that had kept them safe throughout the winter.  I spent a delightful evening photographing amongst the blossoms.  Not only was it a feast for my eyes, but I was treated to the wonderful sweet smell that they give off.  A slight breeze would stir and my senses were filled with the light aroma and the brightness of white surrounding me.  Perhaps what makes the magnolias so special to me is the brevity with which they are in full bloom.  As the week has passed, the wind and rain have already tossed many of the blossoms to the ground, and those that remain are no longer at their peak.  Soon the flowers will all be gone and the tree will be covered in green leaves.