we have a daughter who may be asked, or may possibly not be asked, but, as of late last week, probably will be asked, to prom. looking at the slightly desperate showiness of this boxelder tree in spring, i can’t help but remember the misery of prom for this particular tomboy, who did not dream of heels and hems and hotel rooms, but of true love with a boy who liked a smart girl in jeans and stripes. i did find him eventually.

box elder pollen tassel

vadnais lake trail, saint paul, minnesota