Paulownia Purple

There was heavy rain overnight and today there are strong winds but sunny skies.  Up the hill the trees are swaying and there are Paulownia flowers strewn on the track.  At the start of the track is a small grove of Paulownias and I look forward to their big purple flowers each spring.  They are an ornamental tree in China and Eastern Asia and a fast growing hardwood.  The wood is light but strong and used for chests, boxes, clogs (Geta traditional Japanese footwear and sound boards on musical instruments.  Thank you Mrs Google.
Lovely to read all your comments on 2000 blips.  It proves what an excellent bunch blippers you are.  2001 and on I go.