Dear Diary, 

Today is THE day. Cherry Blossom Day. The day a lot of people like me literally plan their entire Japan trip around. I’m a sucker for all things nature; I love flowers, gardens, tracking bird migrations, you know, just girly things. So, when I first learned about Japanese cherry blossoms in real life and not just at Bath and Body, it shot right to the top of my must-see-before-I-die list. And let me tell you, CBs don’t disappoint. 

First off, let's talk clothes. I had to plan my outfit strategically, you know? I wanted to blend in with the ethereal beauty of the cherry blossoms without looking like another branch on the tree. I chose a dress that's flowy and pink and screamed spontaneous photoshoot. And speaking of photoshoots, let's just say my camera roll is now bursting with pictures that could rival any Instagram influencer's feed. I may or may not have perfected my "casually gazing off into the distance while holding a cup of matcha" pose… 

Anyway, Cherry Blossoms are gorgeous. Their delicate pink and ivory flowers float in the breeze and cast a pink snow on the ground as they begin to fall. The sheer number of trees is astonishing and no amount of googling pictures will ever get you close to the experience of being surrounded by the petals’ warm vanilla smell and the pink explosion. You probably can't get any closer to living in a Barbie dream land. And Cherry Blossoms, being Japan’s national flower, symbolize a lot more than just beauty. These blossoms reflect life and death itself - I know, deep thoughts again - and represent the coming spring. Life, just like Cherry Blossom season, is short and fleeting - take the time to enjoy it. 

 As the day wound down and the sun began to set, the cherry blossoms glowed in the soft light of the sunset. It was magical. I found myself feeling grateful for this experience. It's a reminder to cherish the beauty around us and to seize every opportunity for adventure, whether it's halfway around the world or right in our own backyard.

So here's to cherry blossoms, Japan, and all the magical moments yet to come.

Xoxo, 

Maria