Planting a tree has been called one of the strongest signs that you have hope for the future.  For people who enjoy senior living in Howard County, Maryland, taking part in tree planting can be a gesture of confidence in the years ahead and a reason to take part in one of the county’s most enjoyable annual celebrations.

Blossoms of Hope, the Howard County Cherry Tree Project, began in 2003 as the brainchild of the county’s Office of Tourism.  The goal of the project was to beautify parks and roadways with Kwanzan cherry trees.  The idea was suggested by the Sakura cherry trees that make the tidal basin in Washington, D.C., such a spectacular attraction in the spring.  The Kwanzan trees bloom two weeks later than the Sakura trees, so it was hoped people who flocked to Washington would extend their blossom-viewing pleasure to nearby Howard County.

Now, a few years later, well over a thousand cherry trees have been planted.  Not only do they beautify the area; they also serve to raise awareness of breast cancer and help raise money for people in the community with cancer.

Hundreds of cherry trees now grow in various groves on public land in Howard County.  Many of the trees and groves help make libraries, parks, public office buildings and other locations more attractive all year round.  Hundreds of trees also line state and county roadways.  Homeowners have gotten involved, planting Blossom of Hope trees in their yards after purchasing them during the program’s bi-yearly tree sale.

In 2007, the Blossoms of Hope program launched Cherrybration Days, a spring festival celebrating the blooming of the trees and promoting outdoor activity, appreciation of nature and wellness.

In 2010, Cherrybration Days will include several events:

National Arbor Day Lanterns of Hope Procession, April 23, 7:30 p.m. celebrating spring and honoring the beauty of Howard County’s blossoming cherry trees.  The procession features handmade luminaries.

Second Annual Blossoms of Hope Half Marathon, April 25, 7:30 a.m. in downtown Columbia.

Pink Greens Golf Classic at Turf Valley Resort, April 30.  More than 50 Blossoms of Hope and the Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center.