Sakura Flowers ....

The rows of blooming "tecoma" trees along Al-Bukhary mosque 

What a sight for sore eyes on a blazing, scorching day. This is the view along parts of Jalan Langgar in Alor Setar. I take this route to Taman Jubli Intan or Taman Rimba as is locally known for my walk. This is the blooming season. They are known as "tecoma" trees or the locals call it "sakura" as it is known in Japan. The council or whoever is in-charge plant these trees lining Jalan Langgar and along the North-South highway after Gurun. They are colourful, eye-catching and cooling to watch. Flowers have a way of making you smile and soothe the tired, overworked and stressed-out souls. I don't know about you folks ... but I love it. Especially when I stopped at the traffic lights near Masjid Derga and the winds blow the "sakura" flowers all over the cars .... it's like colourful, light snow flakes falling onto your car. It makes you smile and your heart lighter despite the heat. Even along parts of Taman Rimba, there are a few "tecoma" trees. I catch a falling flower. It is so light and fragile to the touch. No wonder when the wind blows, they fall easily and gracefully down to earth ....

The view along Jalan Langgar after the traffic lights at Masjid Derga

The "tecoma" trees in full bloom. They bloom in all their glory during this hot and dry weather

Yet, amidst the beauty is the leftovers of the dried flowers which litter the roads .... what a bane for the road sweepers ... sometimes I feel it is such a monumental, uphill task .... one sweeps the dried leaves and flowers ... before one's back is turn or the sweat has not even dried ... more leaves and flowers will come gently down and settle on the roads ..... it's all in a day's work ... :-))

Imagine your grave covered full of flowers ....

*Credits go to Yusuf Ne - Kelab Peminat Bunga facebook - for the glorious photos. I cannot take the photos while driving, can I ????