My love for the outdoors—along with a deep pride in our country and appreciation for the places that help tell its story—inspired today’s post. Over the past several years, I’ve had the great honor of chairing and working with the Trust for the National Mall, a nonprofit dedicated to restoring and preserving one of America’s most treasured public spaces.
The National Mall is more than just a collection of monuments and museums … it’s the very heart of our nation’s story. It’s where people have come together for generations to celebrate big moments, speak out for change, or simply take in the history that surrounds them. From presidential inaugurations to powerful civil rights marches, it’s a place that reminds us of where we’ve been and what we stand for.
If you’ve ever walked around the Mall in early spring, you know there’s something magical in the air. One of the best parts of the season is happening right now—the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Every year, over 3,000 trees light up the Tidal Basin and the Mall with their beautiful pink and white flowers. These trees were first gifted to the U.S. by Japan back in 1912 as a gesture of friendship, and since then they’ve come to symbolize peace, renewal, and connection. Keeping that spirit alive, Japan recently donated 250 more cherry trees to help celebrate America’s 250th birthday next year.
Peak bloom is happening now, and while I’m disappointed I won’t be able to see it in person this year, I’ll be following Bloomcam.org to take it all in from afar. If you get the chance, I hope you’ll check it out too.
No matter what’s going on in the world, there’s something about spring on the National Mall that brings a sense of hope. It’s a good reminder to slow down, take in the beauty around us, and appreciate all that we’re blessed to have … our freedoms, our history, and the people who’ve helped shape this country. Even if you’re just watching from a distance, the cherry blossoms are a powerful symbol of where we’ve been, how far we’ve come, and the importance of staying connected to each other and to what really matters.