There is much to like about spring, particularly with all the trees and flowers blooming. For one area town, this is an especially beautiful time of year.

The Charleston, Mo., Dogwood and Azalea Festival kicks off today and will continue through the weekend. Many locals put much work into tending their trees and flowers, and the town has rallied behind the effort to host a fun weekend for folks to enjoy natural beauty and a festival atmosphere. This is the 45th annual Dogwood and Azalea Festival for Charleston.

While we hope you consider a trip to Mississippi County, there are plenty of places in the area to enjoy gorgeous trees and flowers. One place is the Pinecrest Azalea Garden near Oak Ridge. Linda Penzel told the Southeast Missourian on Wednesday the jonquils and daffodils are out now, and the dogwoods should be ready in about a week. She said the azaleas would also be ready in a week to 10 days.

There's no charge for individuals to walk through the area, but bus tours should call 979-1112 before arriving.

We hope you make plans to enjoy the outdoors this weekend and the weeks ahead. Thank you to all those who take care of their landscaping, helping to beautify their communities.