The latest brood of chicks is on their own. Last night was their first night on their own. This morning they woke up without their mother. Sometimes, independence is a traumatic experience for chicks. This bunch is taking it all in stride.

The Rainier cherries are about to bloom. With so many bees buzzing about this year, the cherries should be plentiful.

Each day, there are more petals dropping from the trees. At times today’s gusts looked blizzard like with blowing cherry blossom petals. The remaining blossoms glow in the evening sun. Last year, the sun never seemed to be out when the cherry trees were in bloom. This year, they are breathtaking.