Cherry Blossom Time!

Well it is that time of year again when Japan goes crazy for cherry blossoms. The custom basically involves hanging out under cherry blossoms and enjoying their beauty but really it is just a time to get off work early, hang out with friends and drink and party under the cherry trees.
We had a cherry blossom party scheduled for this Saturday at school as we have a big tree on the school grounds. But the weather didn't cooperate and we only had one blossom open up for the party (top right picture). Heaters were put under the trees (top left picture) to try and have nature cooperate but that didnt work... So, we attached some pink paper to the cherry tree (bottom right picture) to give a bit more of an authentic "blossom" feeling and everyone seemed to be able to enjoy themselves.
The party was to raise money for our upcoming Habitat for Humanity trip and we still had a good turnout of people to support us. The habitat participants provided babysitting services so the parents could enjoy some time on their own and relax.
The trees should be in full bloom for when Mom arrives in a couple of weeks!