Blooming Heck

Friday, 8:30am, Coronation Walk in the Meadows.   Folks heading to work, kids meandering to school, runners (me!) huffing and puffing up the avenues, bikes, prams etc.  And one woman taking a 'sakura selfie'. Not a quick snap - the tripod was set up,  into a pink outfit,  many shots taken whilst flicking her skirt out, back to the camera to check the shot, not good enough - repeat.  I was entranced and amused - only in Japan have I seen this!  The cherry blossom (sakura) symbolises the fragility of life, new beginnings and fresh starts in Japanese culture.  It's celebrated widely with 'viewing' parties (hanami), picnics under the trees and lots of selfies are taken, often wearing traditional dress.