Following the dogwood trail

Husband and I spent a pleasant afternoon doing a little shopping, eating lunch out, and following the dogwood trail in Paducah, Kentucky. The weather has been so funny lately -- actually too warm for the season -- that the dogwoods bloomed too early. The dogwood festival is scheduled for the end of April, but the trees are in full bloom now. So, we decided to take advantage and drive the trail now rather than later.

The driving trail begins at the courthouse in the downtown area. Dogwood trail signs are posted along the route and all you have to do is follow the signs and the arrows. The first part of the trail took us through the Lowertown section of town. This is an artist enclave and all the old Victorians are slowly but surely being reclaimed, renovated, beautified, and loved. The result is awesome.

Baby giraffe, outside artist's studio

Mama giraffe, looking in the window

Driving the dogwood trail was an awesome way to spend an afternoon. There were so many beautiful yards to see and a lot of folks were out getting ready for the festival. Their dogwood trees are lighted so those who drive the trail at dusk or after dark can see them highlighted. They were really beautiful to behold.

Redbud tree in our yard

I hope you enjoyed seeing some of the pictures I took during our drive. It's just too bad that these beautiful trees don't keep their blooms all summer long.

I just love springtime. Now it's time to get our fishing licenses and go catch some nice fish. That's how I really love to spend a day out on the lake.