Because: in which other state during February can you see a riotous explosion of pink azaleas in every front yard? Maybe a select few other states -- those that aren't still covered in soggy, white, half-melted snow, anyway. But in Florida, no recalcitrant snow lingers and inhibits the azaleas' mission of painting the entire peninsula in pink. Their blossoms are papery, spotted, and sensual. They look almost edible, and they completely encapsulate each azalea shrub.
And because: in which other state can you drive down a dismal, wintery interstate, only to discover the most elegant of surprises lining the sides once you drive out just past city limits? Acres and acres of citrus trees blossom and diffuse their heavenly, aromatic scent across the ever-present construction on I-4. The privilege of being surrounded by the scent of citrus blossoms is something that should be reserved for royalty, but as a Florida resident, i retain this privilege on a daily basis during the winter. I live in a state of tumultuous azaleas and other-worldly citrus blossom scents.
And because: i surely can't think of another state whose jasmine blossoms smell quite so sweet in the dead of winter besides Florida. If a residential area doesn't have a few citrus trees blooming in February, it certainly has a handful of jasmine shrubs opening their dainty, faerie-like white flowers whose scent transports the mind to a higher plane. Their delicate perfume has the ability to calm one after a long, strenuous day, or to invoke a spark of passion between two lovers, or, oddly, even to incite an appetite in those who have difficulty eating.
Florida feels like home the longer I stay and experience its natural offerings.
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| And so it is, M |
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