ironwood blossoms

we have lived in our northern california house for three years this summer and we are just starting to get acquainted with our garden. we have about a half an acre of land and most of it is landscaped.  my husband michael always comments that we could have a full time gardener if we could afford one.  well this tree is located in our yard that is alongside the road, so we haven’t paid too much attention to it until now.  the blossoms are just gorgeous and so romantic and old fashion!  today, we cut some and i quickly placed them in a vase with water.  they have a nice fragrance, but unfortunately i’m allergic to most flowers so i couldn’t put them inside.  i really didn’t know the name of this tree, but michael actually came up with the name.  despite it beautiful blossoms, it has some serious thorns, so beware!